The mullein plant (Verbascum) was introduced in the United States during the 18th century by settlers. Due to its quick rate of spreading in certain areas such as western North America, it has earned a reputation as an undesirable weed in gardens.
Its common name is derived from the Latin word “
Other names commonly given to the plant are candlewick plant, lungwort, cowboy toilet paper, torch plant and woolly mullein, to name a few.
Health Benefits of Mullein
Respiratory Conditions
One of the most commonly known uses of mullein is its purported ability to help alleviate respiratory conditions. Taken as a tea, it can help with common ailments such as dry cough, congestion and sore throat. It may help with inflammatory respiratory conditions, such as asthma and bronchitis as well.
Antiseptic
The antibacterial compounds of mullein can be used to help disinfect wounds or scrapes. You can crush mullein flowers to make a paste, and apply it on your wounds.
Antiviral
Mullein may help ease viral infections as well. According to one study, compounds extracted from V.
Heart Health
According to an animal study that used mice as the test subjects, the polysaccharides of the leaves extracted from V.
It’s unclear how the leaves work, but the researchers suggest that using it may help lower your risk of developing hypertension, atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease.
Hair Health
Extracts from the flowers can be used to keep your scalp healthy, as well as eradicate dandruff. It may even be used as a conditioner to help keep your hair smooth and help enrich your hair’s natural colour.
Source: Mercola.com
How to make Mullein Tea
The most common way to take Mullein is in a tea, below is how to make your very own Mullein Tea:
Ingredients:
•1 1/2 cups of water
•1 to 2 teaspoons of dried mullein leaves or flowers (the flowers provide a sweeter flavor)
•1 teaspoon of dried spearmint for flavor (optional)
•1 to 2 teaspoons of raw honey for flavor (optional)
Procedure:
- Boil the water and steep the leaves in it (using a tea bag or ball) for 15 minutes.
- Add the spearmint and/or the honey for
flavor (optional). - Serve and enjoy.
Mullein Infused Oil
Mullein Flowers can be used to create an infused oil, below is a simple recipe to make your own:
What You Will Need:
•Dried mullein flowers (you can use fresh flowers as well)
•Extra virgin olive oil
•A glass jar (the size is up to your preference)
Procedure:
- Place your desired amount of flowers in the jar.
- Pour enough oil until it covers the flowers, then cover the jar. If you’re using fresh flowers, use a cheesecloth to cover the jar, allowing the moisture to escape.
- If you’re using dried flowers, leave the jar in a dark, cool cabinet for four to six weeks. If you’re using fresh flowers, place the jar under the sun for three days without the lid.
- Strain the oil in a new jar three times to make sure the finished product is free from plant particles.
The oil can be used for the following health issues [source]: Earaches
• Ear Ache
Just as mullein tea’s reputation is associated with respiratory conditions, mullein infused oil is largely associated with earaches, which may help reduce swelling and pain. Simply pour 2 to 3 drops of the oil into the affected ear three to four times a day for relief.
• Mouth Ulcers
The anti-inflammatory compounds in mullein infused oil can help soothe the pain brought on by mouth ulcers. Swish a small amount of the oil on your mouth for a few minutes then spit it out.
• Skin Conditions
You can use mullein infused oil to help treat common skin problems such as cuts, scrapes, wounds and sunburn. Simply pour some oil on a cotton ball or swab and gently apply it on the affected area a few times a day.
• Postpartum Healing
Mothers who recently gave birth can use mullein infused oil to help decrease genital swelling, reduce pain and lower the chance of developing infections if the baby was delivered via C-section.
• Joint Inflammation
Mullein infused oil may have a positive effect on inflamed joints. You can massage the oil on the affected area to help relieve pain and help promote blood circulation.
So many wild plants within arms reach to offer us natural remedies, you do have to wonder why they don’t teach this stuff in school anymore!?
Love Mullein!