Psyllium

Plantago affra

Physical Characteristics

Plantago affra is a ANNUAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.2 m (0ft 8in). It is in leaf from May to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

S. Europe - Mediterranean.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Young leaves - raw or cooked[177].

Medicinal Uses

Antidiarrhoeal Laxative Plantain seeds contain up to 30% mucilage which swells up in the gut, acting as a bulk laxative and soothing irritated membranes[238]. Sometimes the seed husks are used without the seeds[238].

Known Hazards

None known