Plantain has been used to help to stop bleeding (including bleeding from mucous membranes) and control excess menstrual flow. It has also been used to relieve colitis, hemorrhoids, diarrhea, dysentery, vomiting and bed wetting in children and incontinence in the aged. Plaintain's diuretic properties are also believed to help kidney, liver, spleen and bladder function by flushing impurities with the increased urine flow. By removing obstructions from the liver, it can be beneficial in cases of jaundice. Plantain may be able to control cholesterol. Added to the diet before meals, Plantain may cause a decrease in triglycerides and beta cholesterol (bad), and reduction of cholesterol, of course, may also contribute to a reduction in heart disease. As an expectorant, Plantain is thought to loosen and expel phlegm from the lungs and respiratory system. Plantain contains salicylic acid, the natural forerunner of synthetic aspirin, and as such, has been effective in relieving pain, including neuralgic pain. Plantain with its high mucilage and fiber content may provide weight loss support.