Majestic Mullein
Nov 22, 2023Mullein is a majestic plant with many names.
In its first year of growth mullein produces a leafy rosette that can easily be confused with other similar plants. But in its second year, a densely crowded flower spike shoots up from the center of the plant distinguishing it from other look-a-likes.
Mullein is very hardy, as most "weeds" are. It is drought and pest resistant, and very easy to grow. For hundreds of years mullein has been used medicinally. One of the earliest references to mullein is in Homer's Odyssey where the Greek gods gave Ulysses mullein to protect him. In recent history mullein has been employed to treat lung conditions, specifically tuberculosis.
Mullein has many medicinal qualities. Here are just a few:
- When taken internally or applied externally mullein targets the body's glands, including the entire endocrine system.
- Mullein also has an affinity for the respiratory system. It contains mucilage which helps soothe mucus membranes and shrink inflammation, thus supporting improved breathing for chest colds, asthma, and bronchitis.
- As an antispasmodic it works to clear and quiet coughs.
- Mullein leaves have been employed to treat lymphatic congestion and swollen glands.
- It has been used to soothe nerves, pain and inflammation, although the flowers have a stronger pain relieving effect than the leaves.
Dried stalks make great tinder for fire. Ancient Romans dipped these stalks in tallow and used them as torches!
The well-known herbalist Doctor John R. Christopher believed that everyone should have mullein oil or ointment on hand for emergencies.
An old remedy for ear infections that's still used by many today is done by infusing mullein flowers in oil and placing a few drops in the ear.
Mullein flowers bloom randomly and can be tedious to harvest, but well worth the effort!
Want to learn more about the amazing medicinal plants that may be growing in your backyard, and how to use them? Visit us at itsinournature.com for more tidbits and check out our blog, beginner friendly courses, and upcoming workshops. Take Care!
Kristi Taylor is a Master Herbalist, Clinical Herbalist and Natural healing Guide®. She endeavors to share her knowledge and passion of natural healing with whomever will listen – because nature’s wisdom never ceases to delight and amaze!
References
Christopher, John R. The School of Natural Healing: Herb Syllabus. (Christopher Publications, UT: 2010).
McCarthy E, O'Mahony JM. What's in a Name? Can Mullein Weed Beat TB Where Modern Drugs Are Failing? Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2011;2011:239237. doi: 10.1155/2011/239237. Epub 2010 Sep 19. PMID: 20953419; PMCID: PMC2952292.
Ritchason, Jack. The Little Herb Encyclopedia. (Woodland Publishing, UT: 2015)
Waldron, Laura. Wisconsin Art & Nature Center, Blog "It's torch! It's a medicine! It's mullein!", 5 September 2017 (wianc.org, accessed Nov 2023).
