Plantaginis majoris folia (Herbal raw material, Juice, Tincture) Instructions for Use

ATC Code

R05CA (Expectorants)

Active Substance

Plantago major (BP British Pharmacopoeia)

Clinical-Pharmacological Group

Herbal preparation with anti-inflammatory action, stimulating the secretory function of the gastrointestinal tract and tissue regeneration

Pharmacotherapeutic Group

Herbal expectorant

Pharmacological Action

A herbal preparation. It has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, enveloping, and expectorant effects, promotes tissue regeneration and activates gastric secretion.

The antiseptic effect (against staphylococci, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, hemolytic streptococcus) is due to the presence of phytoncides.

The anti-inflammatory, wound- and ulcer-healing effects are associated with the presence of polysaccharides, pectic and tannin substances, benzoic and salicylic acids. Polysaccharides activate the formation of interferon; zinc and flavonoids contribute to the normalization of phagocytosis. The combination of polysaccharides with enzymes and vitamins promotes the acceleration of regeneration. These effects are also closely related to the ability of plantain to increase the resistance of cells and tissues to oxygen deficiency. A pronounced antihypoxic effect is provided by organic (especially citric) and phenolcarboxylic acids (ferulic, caffeic, coumaric), flavonoids (derivatives of luteolin, quercetin, apigenin), vitamin C, copper, and zinc. The hemostatic effect is associated with the presence of vitamin K.

Plantain regulates digestion, increases appetite, reduces the tone of the smooth muscles of the stomach and intestines, and has an anti-inflammatory and regenerating effect in gastritis, gastroduodenitis, and other inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Iridoid glycosides, aucubin, catalpol, and bitter substances included in its composition enhance the secretion of gastric juice and increase the acidity of gastric contents.

Due to mucus, enzymes, and phytoncides, plantain also has an expectorant effect, restoring the protective function of the ciliated epithelium of the respiratory tract.

Saponins, oxycinnamic acids, flavonoids, and pectic substances contribute to the reduction of blood cholesterol levels.

Indications

Used as part of combination therapy: for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases – acute and chronic gastritis, gastric and duodenal ulcers with preserved and reduced secretion, enterocolitis, enzymopathies, dysbiosis; for the treatment of infectious and inflammatory diseases of the respiratory organs, including rhinitis, tonsillopharyngitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, whooping cough.

For external use: dermatitis of various etiologies, wounds, cuts, bruises, trophic ulcers, boils, abscesses, burns.

For local use: gynecological diseases, cervical erosion.

ICD codes

Dosage Regimen

Herbal raw material, Juice, Tincture

For the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, plantain is taken orally as a prepared infusion, 15-50 ml 15-30 minutes before meals. The course of treatment is 1-8 weeks. The juice is taken 1 tablespoon (dissolved in 50 ml of warm water) 15-20 minutes before meals 3-4 times/day for 1 month.

For the treatment of respiratory diseases, plantain is used as an infusion or juice in the same doses but 30 minutes after meals. For colds, the juice, diluted 5-10 times with warm water, can be instilled 2-3 drops into each nostril 3-6 times/day.

For the treatment of dermatological diseases, the juice and infusion can be used externally as dressings, lotions, or washings, 3-4 times/day, and for burns – regularly, at intervals of 1-1.5 hours.

In gynecological practice, the juice is used for douching, sitz baths, instillations, and vaginal tampons.

Adverse Reactions

Rarely: allergic reactions; when taken orally – heartburn.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to Plantago major; increased secretion of the digestive glands; gastric and duodenal ulcer in the acute phase.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, it can be used according to indications in cases where the intended benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the fetus or infant.

Pediatric Use

It can be used in children according to indications, in doses and dosage forms appropriate for age. It is necessary to strictly follow the instructions for Plantago major preparations regarding indications and contraindications for use in children of different ages for specific dosage forms of Plantago major.

Special Precautions

The therapeutic effects of Plantago major are most fully manifested when using the juice.

The prepared infusion should be stored in a cool place for no more than 2 days.

Drug Interactions

When treating respiratory diseases, it should not be used simultaneously with antitussive drugs, as this makes it difficult to expel liquefied sputum.

Storage Conditions

Store at 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F). Keep in original packaging, protected from light. Keep out of reach of children.

Dispensing Status

Over-the-Counter

Important Safety Information

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor before use. Dosage and side effects may vary. Use only as prescribed.