Plantain is a weed found mostly in temperate regions of the world. It originated in Eurasia and is considered to have been introduced to the New World through New England by the Puritans. There, it was initially cultivated for its medicinal properties. Early settlers and travelers used extracts from plantain leaves to treat foot injuries, while also using its young leaves, which resemble spinach, as a salad. In the past, plantain was cultivated in monasteries for its various medicinal properties. Apart from its antimicrobial and antioxidant attributes, plantain has been documented to possess anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties. It also has been shown to boost the immune system and to help treat ulcers, diarrhea and fatigue. 

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Information courtesy of West Virginia University