The wonders of Plantain

Part of Traditional Medicine used by the Native Americans is based on the belief the tthe Creator has placed everything we need to live a happy life here on earth for our use. Our responsibility is to find those things and learn how to use them.

Last weekend, Jake had a run in with a Cicada killer Wasp - and within 24 hours his leg was red and swollen and looked like we might have to make an ER trip.
Luckily for us, we have old remedies for stingers - so first I tried the old spit and tobacco as a poultice. Sounds gross - but let me tell you that it takes out the stinger and most of the poison if you get on the wrong end of a bee. Apparently, though, it wasn't strong enough to help with the wasp. added Benedryl - but still no luck.

Day two, though, the leg was still warm and red. I was worried about cellulitis and infection, but thought we might try something else to avoid spending $200 copay at the ER. I could see where the stinger had gone in, but couldn't get to it. So I went with plan B.

This is plantain - a common weed in most American yards - at least every one I have ever had. When you pick it, chop up the leaves either by hand or in a chopper, you can use it as a poultice. The leaves have chemicals that help with inflammation. So I wrapped it in a bit of gauze, taped the bit ot his leg and we checked again Monday morning.

The leg was no longer hot, the redness had ebbed back to about half the area, and the spot right next to the stinger had gotten purple. Three days later, you can hardly see the spot - it looks a lot better.

So there might be something to this - I have used herbs for years, though with the goats I am using them more and more - easier and more healthy than feeding them pills.