Mullein
Appearance and Location
Mullein, also known as “flannel leaf” or “felt-wort”, is a yellow, flowering plant with over 200 species in the Verbascum genus . This tall, fuzzy plant is considered a biennial, meaning it takes two years to complete a growing cycle. Mullein can typically be found growing in neglected meadows and pasture lands, along fence rows and roadsides, in vacant lots, wood edges, forest openings and even in industrial areas. While Mullein is common in the United States, it is native to the Mediterranean countries and Eurasia. There are two types of Mullein that are typically used medicinally – Great Mullein, otherwise known as Verbascum thapsus, and Orange Mullein, otherwise known as Verbascum phlomoides.
The word “Mullein” is derived from the Latin word mollis, meaning “soft.” This is due to the leaves from the plant being very soft and fuzzy, similar to felt fabric. In fact, the leaves from the Mullein plant were sometimes used as a natural rouge when rubbed vigorously on the cheeks! Similarly, because of its soft fuzzy leaves, it has been used over the years as a “natural” toilet paper – even gaining the nickname, “Cowboy Toilet Paper.” Traditionally, the oil from the flowers, leaves and
roots were extracted for medicinal purposes. On the more practical side of things,
the stalks were frequently used to create torches by stripping them of their leaves
and dowsing them in tallow.
Functions and Properties Throughout History
Mullein has been used for centuries for a multitude of reasons – both practical and medicinal. It is typically considered to be antiviral and antibacterial in nature – also possessing diuretic properties. Made from the flowers and leaves, Mullein tea has been used over the years as a traditional remedy for bronchitis, sore throats, inflammation, tonsillitis, dry coughs, as well as for hoarseness.
By the late 1800s, Mullein was a widely used treatment for tuberculosis throughout Europe, the United States, and the United Kingdom. It was often boiled with milk and consumed daily as an effective remedy. As a poultice, this mixture was often used to treat boils, carbuncles, skin ulcers, chilblains, and even hemorrhoids.
In addition, Mullein oil was also extracted from the flowers and used to treat earaches, ease headaches, and help improve varying digestive issues. The roots, leaves, and flowers are perceived to have sedative properties as well. Because of this, experts believe it to be a possible remedy for insomnia by helping to promote a restful sleep, but its application for use when the sinuses or lungs have been assailed by seasonal attack is enhanced by it’s ability to support the lungs and restful sleep at the same time.
Remember to join us each month as we explore the history, personality, clinical application, and more of Nancy’s favorite plants. Get a snippet of the properties and practical uses of these herbs and how they supported the health of our ancestors as well as how they can support us in our present day.
Resources:
Appearance and Location
Appearance and Location
Mullein, also known as “flannel leaf” or “felt-wort”, is a yellow, flowering plant with over 200 species in the Verbascum genus . This tall, fuzzy plant is considered a biennial, meaning it takes two years to complete a growing cycle. Mullein can typically be found growing in neglected meadows and pasture lands, along fence rows and roadsides, in vacant lots, wood edges, forest openings and even in industrial areas. While Mullein is common in the United States, it is native to the Mediterranean countries and Eurasia. There are two types of Mullein that are typically used medicinally – Great Mullein, otherwise known as Verbascum thapsus, and Orange Mullein, otherwise known as Verbascum phlomoides.
The word “Mullein” is derived from the Latin word mollis, meaning “soft.” This is due to the leaves from the plant being very soft and fuzzy, similar to felt fabric. In fact, the leaves from the Mullein plant were sometimes used as a natural rouge when rubbed vigorously on the cheeks! Similarly, because of its soft fuzzy leaves, it has been used over the years as a “natural” toilet paper – even gaining the nickname, “Cowboy Toilet Paper.” Traditionally, the oil from the flowers, leaves and roots were extracted for medicinal purposes. On the more practical side of things, the stalks were frequently used to create torches by stripping them of their leaves and dowsing them in tallow.
Functions and Properties
Throughout History
Functions and Properties Throughout History
Mullein has been used for centuries for a multitude of reasons – both practical and medicinal. It is typically considered to be antiviral and antibacterial in nature – also possessing diuretic properties. Made from the flowers and leaves, Mullein tea has been used over the years as a traditional remedy for bronchitis, sore throats, inflammation, tonsillitis, dry coughs, as well as for hoarseness.
By the late 1800s, Mullein was a widely used treatment for tuberculosis throughout Europe, the United States, and the United Kingdom. It was often boiled with milk and consumed daily as an effective remedy. As a poultice, this mixture was often used to treat boils, carbuncles, skin ulcers, chilblains, and even hemorrhoids.
In addition, Mullein oil was also extracted from the flowers and used to treat earaches, ease headaches, and help improve varying digestive issues. The roots, leaves, and flowers are perceived to have sedative properties as well. Because of this, experts believe it to be a possible remedy for insomnia by helping to promote a restful sleep, but its application for use when the sinuses or lungs have been assailed by seasonal attack is enhanced by it’s ability to support the lungs and restful sleep at the same time.
Remember to join us each month as we explore the history, personality, clinical application, and more of Nancy’s favorite plants. Get a snippet of the properties and practical uses of these herbs and how they supported the health of our ancestors as well as how they can support us in our present day.
Resources:
Healthline | WebMD | Encyclopedia