Plantains are herbaceous plants in the Plantaginaceae family. The Plantago genus comprises some 200 species. "Plantago" is Latin for "plant that acts", as the Romans attributed many medicinal properties to it. This plant is used for its anti-inflammatory, soothing and healing properties in the case of skin inflammations, wounds, burns, cracks, chapping and stings. It is also used to treat respiratory ailments, urinary tract infections, hemorrhoids, constipation and dysentery, as well as ulcers and conjunctivitis. In the kitchen, its edible leaves are eaten raw or cooked.