Mullein | The Medicinal Herb that Fights Infections & Inflammation

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 “mollis,” which means soft, which most likely refers to its soft stem and leaves. Its botanical name, comes from the Latin “barbascum,” which means beard — a reference to the plant’s shaggy appearance.

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. thapsus showed potential against the Herpes simplex virus type 1, as well as the influenza A virus.

Heart Health

According to an animal study that used mice as the test subjects, the polysaccharides of the leaves extracted from V. thapsus exhibited a noticeable ability to reduce bad cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

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:

1. Boil the water and steep the leaves in it (using a tea bag or ball) for 15 minutes.
2. Add the spearmint and/or the honey for flavor (optional).
3. 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:

1. Place your desired amount of flowers in the jar.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.