Both the Greater Plantain and its close relative Ribwort Plantain have valuable healing properties. Taken internally it acts as a gentle expectorant while also soothing inflamed and sore membranes, making it ideal for coughs and mild bronchitis. Its astringency aids in diarrhea, hemorrhoids and also in cystitis where there is bleeding. Externally it can be used as a drawing agent for insect, spider, and snakebite.