Plantain (Plantago asiatica)

Other names: Che qian zi, 车前子, Che Qian Cao, Plantago Seed, Plantain Seed

Plantain (Plantago asiatica), also known as Che qian zi, 车前子, Che Qian Cao, Plantago Seed or Plantain Seed, is a perennial plant belonging to the plantain family. It is native to East Asia, but has been introduced and naturalized in other parts of the world including Europe and North America. Botanically, it is a meadow plant and is characterised by its ground rosettes of leaves and tall, densely foliaged inflorescences that are rich in seeds.

Asian plantain is valued for its medicinal powers and is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. Its seeds contain various bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, terpenoids, glycosides and polysaccharides, which have a variety of beneficial effects for human health. Among others, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties are attributed. The seeds, leaves, and roots of Asian plantain are also used to produce various extracts, teas, and dietary supplements. In addition, it is an important honey-bearing plant and in some Asian countries such as Japan and Korea, Asian plantain is also used in gastronomy. The young leaves are eaten raw or cooked and the seeds are used as ingredients in traditional recipes.