Plantain

Plantago major

Evidence: BFamily: Plantaginaceae

Gentle demulcent and vulnerary herb that draws toxins from bites, stings, and wounds while soothing inflamed mucous membranes. A safe, ubiquitous lawn weed used across all species for skin and gut healing.

Consult Your Veterinarian First

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before using herbal remedies for your pet — especially if they are on medication, pregnant, or have existing health conditions.

Species Safety

An herb safe for one species may be toxic to another.

Dogs

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Cats

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Horses

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Rabbits

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Birds

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Guinea Pigs

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Dosing Guide

General guidance only — always consult your veterinarian.

SpeciesFormDoseFrequencyNotes
Dogsdried herb5-15 mg /lbtwice dailyMix with food; can be offered long-term for chronic gut or skin issues.
Dogsglycerin tincture0.25-0.5 drops /lbtwice dailyTilford dose; excellent for digestive inflammation.
Catsglycerin tincture2-5 dropstwice dailyGlycerite preferred; avoid alcohol tinctures for felines.
Horsesdried herb15-30 gramstwice dailyTop-dress on feed; fresh leaves may also be grazed freely.
Rabbitsdried herb1-3 gramsonce dailyFresh or dried; part of varied forage mix.

Active Compounds

Aucubin(glycoside)
Allantoin(other)
Mucilage polysaccharides(mucilage)
Tannins(tannin)

Compounds marked Cat Unsafe (phenols and many terpenes) cannot be metabolized by feline livers.

Quick Info

Plant Family

Plantaginaceae

Parts Used

leaf, seed

Available Forms

dried herb, tea, topical salve, infused oil, poultice, glycerin tincture

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