Plantago leaf, known as Che Qian Cao (车前草) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is a powerful herb prized for its ability to clear heat, drain dampness, and promote urinary health. For centuries, this versatile plant has been used to support the kidneys, liver, lungs, and digestive system, making it a staple in herbal medicine for detoxification and internal balance.
What makes Che Qian Cao so important in TCM is its role in treating "Damp-Heat" conditions, which are associated with excess moisture, inflammation, and toxin buildup in the body. It is commonly used to reduce water retention, soothe urinary tract infections, relieve phlegm in the lungs, and support healthy digestion.
Ancient TCM practitioners often prescribed Plantago leaf to traveling scholars and warriors, believing it could improve vision and sharpen mental clarity. Modern research has since confirmed that its high content of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds supports eye health and cognitive function, bridging traditional wisdom with scientific validation.
Supports Kidney Health: Helps flush excess fluids and reduce water retention.
Aids Digestion: Soothes stomach inflammation and supports gut health.
Clears Lung Phlegm: Used in TCM to relieve coughs and respiratory congestion.
Detoxifies the Body: Removes toxins and excess heat from the system.
Promotes Eye Health: Traditionally used to improve vision and reduce eye strain.
Drains Dampness: Removes excess moisture from the body, benefiting digestion and urinary health.
Clears Heat: Used in TCM to reduce inflammation and balance internal energy.
Supports the Kidney & Liver Meridians: Helps regulate fluid metabolism and detox pathways.
Transforms Phlegm: Aids in expelling mucus and supporting lung function.
Rich in Antioxidants: Contains flavonoids that protect against oxidative stress.
Natural Diuretic: Helps the body eliminate excess fluids, reducing bloating.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Soothes the digestive tract and respiratory system.
Scientific Validation: Research supports its role in reducing urinary tract infections and improving gut health.
Discover the many ways Che Qian Cao can restore balance and vitality in your body, whether used as a tea, tincture, or supplement!
Common Name: Plantago Leaf. Plantain Leaf, Plantago, Aerial Plant, Herba Plantaginis, Che Qian Zi, Asiatic Plantian, Broadleaf Plantain, Greater Plantain, Large Plantain
Botanical Name: Plantago Asiatica Herba, Plantago Major
Chinese / Pin Yin Name: Che Qian Cao
Plantago Leaf Properties: Sweet, Cold
Plantago Leaf Channels / Meridians: Lung, Small Intestine, Kidney
Plantago Leaf Naturally Occurring Components: Acteoside, apigenin, geranyl acetate, linalool, plantaioside A, B, plantaioside C, plantaioside D, plantaioside E, plantaioside F,acteosideisomer, aucubin, alcerioside B, homoplantaginin, isomartynoside, mucilage, plantamajoside, ursolic acid, vitamin A, vitamin B
Plantago Leaf Dosage: Consult your healthcare provider for your correct dose.
Plantago Leaf Precautions: Do not use if pregnant or nursing. May interfer with medications
Plantago leaf is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb to promote diuresis, clear heat, improve vision and rid phlegm. Plantago Leaf benefits gastrointestinal health, promotes a healthy immune system, supports respiratory health, benefits urinary tract health, support eye health and benefits skin health. Plantago leaf has antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antimalarial and anti-giardiasic effects.
Best for: Daily detox, digestion, and mild inflammation.
How to Make:
Best for: Stronger detox, respiratory support, and kidney health.
How to Make:
Best for: Convenient long-term use, lung support, and antibacterial benefits.
How to Make:
Best for: Easy daily supplementation, digestion, and inflammation.
How to Use:
Best for: Skin conditions, wounds, and inflammation.
How to Use:
Best for: Detox, skin health, and muscle relaxation.
How to Use:
References
https://tcmwiki.com/wiki/che-qian-cao
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/plantago-major
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5878035/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7142308/
http://alternativehealing.org/che_qian_cao.htm
https://herbpathy.com/Uses-and-Benefits-of-Che-Qian-Cao-Cid3525
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5878035/
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