Description
Botanical: Verbascum thapsus
Other common names: Aaron's Rod, Velvet Dock, Torches, Jacob's Staff, Bunny's Ears, Lungwort,
Large-flowered Mullein, Witches' Candle, Beggar's Blanket, Velvet Plant, Pig Taper, Verbascum Flowers, Bullock's Lungwort, Woolen Blanket Herb, Flannel Flower, Shepherd's Club, Cow's Lungwort, Hag's Taper, Jupiter's Staff, Our Lady's Flannel, Candlewick, Grandmother's Flannel
Mullein is an old and respected treatment for respiratory problems, including dry, hacking and unproductive coughs. It's a good herb to have handy for flu and chest colds. Mullein is also a mild sedative, herbal pain reliever and demulcent that is soothing to inflamed tissues.
Country of Origin: Bulgaria
Beneficial Uses:
One of the primary uses of Mullein has been to remedy respiratory problems, such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema, asthma, croup and other breathing difficulties. It is a fine expectorant that stimulates the cough reflex, clearing out congestion and expelling excess respiratory phlegm and mucus. Its high mucilage content also soothes and tones the mucous membranes of the respiratory system and reduces inflammation. The mucilage in Mullein lubricates the throat and lungs, even as it promotes expectoration, easing the bronchial passages, throat irritation and laryngitis.
Mullein Leaf is considered an anodyne that is said to relieve pain, including headaches and migraines. It is slightly sedative and is said to promote a sound sleep and ease nervous tension.
As a demulcent, Mullein soothes mucous membranes, lubricates tissues and promotes healing. This mucilaginous effect also helps to ease gastronomic distress.
Mullein is considered an antispasmodic and helps to relieve stomach cramps.
The presence of tannins in Mullein helps to treat diarrhea by reducing inflammation in the intestine and is an old-time remedy for dysentery. (However, in large doses, Mullein acts as a laxative.)
Mullein is said to show strong overall anti-inflammatory activity and has been said to be effective in treating swellings, especially when lymph nodes in the throat, neck, arms and groin swell or are congested. It has a reputation for cleansing the lymphatic system generally, and it is also frequently used to relieve swollen joints.
Mullein is an astringent, antibacterial and antiseptic, making it effective for urinary tract infection, as well as a fine mouthwash for sore throats.
Externally, Mullein Leaf is used to treat wounds. As a highly mucilaginous herb, it has been used as a topical anti-inflammatory by herbalists as a soothing emollient for inflammatory skin conditions and burns. In oils or salves, it can calm and soothe the pain and inflammation of hemorrhoids, soften the skin and reduce the inflammation and pain of insect bites, earaches and bruises. The leaves make a fine drawing salve (boiled in hot wine) for thorns and splinters.
Contraindications:
Pregnant or nursing women should not use Mullein, and people with a history of cancer should consult their physicians before taking this product.
