Mullein
( Verbascum thapsus )
Mullein is a biennial plant that grows up to 6 feet tall in height. It is a common roadside wildflower, it has large velvety leaves and small, dense yellow flowers. Owing to its astringent or binding action on the tissue, it is very useful in treating diarrhea and hemorrhoids. As a expectorant, it will help the body remove excess mucus from the lungs and is used to treat bronchitis and coughs. The dried flowers, leaves, and roots all used as a remedies. Because it burns easily when dried, mullein was used to make candlewicks before the introduction of cotton< therefore its named as, candlewick plant. Mullein tea is soothing and can help relieve coughing of asthma, bronchitis which is why some call it lungwort. The Delaware Indian's used the leaves as a poultice to treat the pain of rheumatism, My Uncle Frank used to treat swollen glands by applying scalded leaves.( My Uncle Frank was A Cherokee Indian.
To make a tea pour 1 cup of boiling water over the dried leaves or flowers, steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Add honey to taste, because mullein is bitter.
Aids with: respiratory ailments,coughs, flu, bronchitis, asthma, stomach cramps, diarrhea. for external use, ulcers, tumors, hemorrhoids, ear problems.
Caution: Avoid mullein seeds as they are poisonous.
There could be a side effect to some, as not serious, mild stomach upset, diarrhea.
Always seek a practitioner for help and use on herbs, always remember herbs is a medicine.
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