Medicinal yard weed

Plantago major is a species of plantago, family Plantaginaceae. The active chemical constituents are aucubin (an anti-microbial agent), allantoin (which stimulates cellular growth and tissue regeneration), and mucilage (which reduces pain and discomfort). Broadleaf plantain is also a highly nutritious wild edible, that is high in calcium and vitamins A, C, and K. The young, tender leaves can be eaten raw. 
A tea of plantain leaves can be ingested to treat diarrhea or dysentery. Adding fresh plantain seeds or flower heads to a tea will act as an effective lubricating and bulking laxative and soothe raw, sore throats. When ingested, the aucubin in plantain leaves leads to increased uric acid excretion from the kidneys. Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant, weak antibiotic, immuno modulating and antiulcerogenic activity.