(Note: Because the flowers are so light in weight, it will take a huge quantity to make a few ounces of tincture or oil.). The dense wooly hairs on the mullein leaves can be a bit irritating. Great Mullein is a versatile herb; it can be applied, drunk, smoked or inhaled for medicinal purposes. I usually take about seven drops of tincture, stretch out a bit, and the kink disappears and I feel perfectly aligned. Mulling Over Mullein Leaf About mullein oil. The central stem of the mullein plant terminates in a dense spike of pale yellow flowers that generally measure anywhere from 5 to 60 cm (2" to 2') long. Fresh or dried leaves can be used in an alcohol extract. Arhiv za higijenu rada i toksikologiju 67, no. By signing up for my free course you’ll also be joining my weekly Some folks think of mullein as a weed, an uninvited guest from faraway lands. This means it can uptake heavy metals from the earth and store it. Mullein has been used for thousands of years to treat respiratory conditions. Plant Parts Used: It is the mullein leaves and flowers that are used medicinally. The oil is used as a remedy for... Benefits. Dry the leaves for use in teas, nourishing infusions, or as a smoking or vaporizing herb. Their research concluded, “Because mullein efficiently transported metal pollutants into the above-ground parts and because it fits well the desired characteristics for its use as a biomass, it is our plant of choice for further bioremediation use at the polluted industrial site.”5. As long as the symptom pattern of dry, irritated and inflamed lungs fits, consider mullein for any type of cough, as a tea, tincture, or even inhaled as smoke or vapor. I use it primarily for facial and spinal-based nerve pain, usually in some larger formula which might include saint john's wort, sweet clover ( Melilotus ), prickly ash, and/or jamaican dogwood. I am no longer a moon woman, having passed over the moon a few years back. This article tells you all you need to know about shepherd's…, Licorice root is an ancient herbal remedy that's commonly found in teas, supplements, and candies — but you may have heard that too much can have an…, You may be used to thinking of the plantain in your garden as a persnickety weed, but you may not know that this plant has several uses as a food and…, Osha root has numerous traditional uses for respiratory ailments, but you may wonder whether any of them are backed by scientific evidence. A woodpecker, intent on its foraging, doesn’t seem to notice. More uses for Mullein Plant. Mullein flower infused oil acts as an anodyne to take away the pain of the earache, while also exerting lymphatic action on the area around the ear to help resolve the infection. Mullein tea is said to have antiviral activity and may help fight … This historic use is backed up by the experiences of countless present-day parents and children. This…, Recently, kalonji has gained popularity for its purported weight loss benefits. When drinking an infusion of the leaves strain it through a coffee filter or several layers of cheesecloth to remove any hairs from the tea. Herbs      Recipes      Your Health      Resources      What's New? Mullein tea is made from the leaves of the mullein plant. It is not meant to diagnose medical conditions, to treat any medical conditions or to prescribe medicine. Mullein leaf tea is slightly bitter; a tea of the flowers is sweeter. You may need to visit a mullein plant on numerous occasions to get enough flowers. In some cases, mullein is applied directly to the skin to help treat burns or inflammatory skin conditions. 1 (1987): 55-61. The attractive foliage and flowers, as well as mullein uses, lead some to grow mullein in gardens. To prevent throat irritation, use a strainer or cheesecloth to remove as many of the leaves as possible. She's a registered herbalist with the American Herbalist Guild and the Education Director for LearningHerbs. These same plant fibers are a bit irritating to human skin, which can be annoying, medicinal, or both. With demulcent, expectorant and astringent properties, Mullein leaves and flowers are rich in saponins which are thought to be responsible for the potent respiratory benefits of this herb. Like anything, this method can be overdone, but when you get it just right it can have dramatic and quick results. Still, you should strain your tea properly and exercise caution if handling the herb directly to prevent skin irritation. If you notice any negative side effects after drinking this tea, consider scaling back your intake or avoiding it. Mullein has natural sedative benefits and may be helpful in the treatment of insomnia and anxiety. "Phytoremediation Potential of Wild Plants Growing on Soil Contaminated with Heavy Metals." Whether you are considering mullein’s stature, its important role in the greater ecosystem, or its gifts of medicine, it’s hard not to be impressed with this beautiful plant. Additionally, no research is available on mullein tea’s safety for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you desire, you can add raw honey, cinnamon, or a lemon wedge. Herbs     Recipes     Your Health     Services      My Story     Health Programs     Contact, Information found on this website is meant for educational purposes only.It is not meant to diagnose medical conditions, to treat any medical conditions or to prescribe medicine. The above dosage suggestions and tincture ratios were compiled from Michael Moore (Medicinal Plants of the Mountain West) and Christa Sinadinos. Demulcents are substances that can help soothe the irritation or inflammation in your skin or internally in your throat, mouth, or nose. Fresh or dried root can be used in an alcohol extract. Mullein tea has been linked to several potential health benefits. Mullein is a biennial plant, meaning it takes two years for it to complete its life cycle. Common mullein plants are large, erect specimens with huge, furry leaves and tall stalks of yellow flower rosettes. Animal and human research suggest that mullein tea works by reducing inflammation, thereby helping relax the muscles in your respiratory tract (5, 6). This flavorful tea is easy to make at home and associated with very few side effects. This time he is Mulling over Mullein (Verbascum blattaria, V. thapsus). Herbalist jim mcdonald says, “Mullein root on its own, though, is also markedly effective. Mullein is generally regarded as safe; however, it always is important to harvest plants from healthy soils and to resist the temptation of the roadside mullein plants. "Inhibition of Herpes Simplex Virus Replication by Flos Verbasci Infusion." Mullein boasts large hairy leaves that can feel like thick dense wool. Mullein is known by many different names: Aaron’s rod, Adam’s flannel, Indian tobacco, Jacob’s staff, Jupiter’s staff, Peter’s staff, Blanket Leaf, Bullock’s Lungwort, Cow’s Lungwort, Feltwort, Hare’s Beard, Lady’s Foxglove, Mullein Leaf, and many more names. All rights reserved. You can find prepackaged mullein tea bags, extracts, capsules, tinctures, and dried leaves at many health stores, as well as online. The common name Mullein is a derivation of the Latin word ‘Mollis’ which means soft and refers to the texture of the leaves. Mullein’s biggest claim to fame is as an earache remedy. When prepared as a nourishing herbal infusion, you can drink it frequently, not only to support lung health, but also to benefit from its high levels of calcium and magnesium4. This past summer much of the western United States was choking on a constant cloud of thick smoke. These two latter species have flower stalks that are denser than V. thapsus, making for an easier flower harvest. Not everyone can stay inside, however, and it wasn’t long before I started getting calls from folks wondering what they could do to protect their lungs. Strain teas through a coffee filter to avoid ingesting irritating hairs. Place in blender or crush, fill jar, cover with olive oil, set in warm place for 2 weeks. Herbcraft. Mullein oil is also used in ear drops for … May treat respiratory conditions. For instance, one test-tube study analyzed several medicinal herbs and found that mullein extract was particularly effective against the influenza virus (7). Some test-tube studies suggest that mullein may possess powerful antiviral properties. Is it strong or weak? Historically, mullein leaves were commonly used topically to address external hemorrhoids and varicose veins. Harvest the first year root, preferably in autumn, clean it well and dry it. Mullein leaf is nutrient dense. It was reportedly used as blush substitute in communities where make-up wasn’t allowed. Like mullein flower, mullein's root also seems to allay some types of nerve pain, and can be helpful as a possible treatment for Bell's Palsy, an indication shared by David Winston. Check out these photos of a fascinating plant. However, it’s unclear to what extent this effect was due to mullein extract versus other herbs used in the ear drops (14). As the sun readies itself to crest the eastern ridge, birds and bees and small mammals are beginning to stir. In the second year, it sends up a long flower stalk. Harvest the roots during the fall of the first year plant or the spring of the second year plant. Both the leaves and flowers contain mucilage, which is soothing to irritated membranes, and saponins, which make coughs more productive. They love disturbed soils with lots of sunlight. … In Ireland, Mullein leaves were boiled in milk to make a decoction that was used as a remedy for tuberculosis. Mullein oil can cure ear pain and is good for curing eczema; hemorrhoids and wounds. The best times are in the fall of the first year’s growth or in the spring of the second year, before the flower stalk starts to grow. A small bottle of the oil can be warmed in a warm water bath until the drops are about body temperature; then a few soothing drops can be placed in one or both ears and guarded with cotton balls. It is thus a remedy for complex fractures, where the bone needs to be lubricated to be returned to its place. Mullein’s leaves and flowers are believed to act as expectorants or demulcents. Rosalee is an herbalist and author of the bestselling book Alchemy of Herbs: Transform Everyday Ingredients Into Foods & Remedies That Heal. It goes up and down the stalk, perhaps eating the ants and other bugs as well as eating some of the millions of seeds that are forming. In the first year, a large basal rosette of silvery green and hairy leaves appears. Respiratory Health. Mullein is a plant. When garbling lots of mullein leaves, you may want to wear gloves. Potential benefits and uses of mullein tea, Kalonji: Weight Loss, Benefits, and Side Effects, Shepherd's Purse: Benefits, Dosage, Side Effects, and More. © 2005-2020 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Steep the mullein leaves in hot water inside a tea ball or strainer for 15 minutes. What Are Steel Cut Oats, and Do They Have Benefits? Let’s take a look at a few medicinal uses of mullein. A hummingbird is visiting the nearby honeysuckle and its path crisscrosses those tall stalks. However, common mullein produces seeds prolifically, leaving them for decades before germination. Back to Flower Meanings; Mullein Color Meanings. While it is sometimes use as a simple, it is often combined with garlic and/or St. John’s Wort in the infused oil. The Eclectic Physicians – Cook, Felter, and Lloyd – all recommend mullein for piles, as did Nicholas Culpepper in the 17th century.6,7, Mullein leaf can also be used to address lymphatic stagnancy. Thus, these populations should consult a healthcare professional before using it. Return from Benefits of Mullein to the Main Herbs Page, Return from Benefits of Mullein to HerbalRemediesAdvice.org. Mullein is wonderful for coughs and lung inflammation from all kinds of irritants and pathologies, whether it is particulate matter in the air or symptoms from asthma or an upper respiratory infection. While the occasions when this has worked are too numerous to recount, it doesn't always work...just most of the time.”9, Matthew Wood describes his reasoning for mullein’s mechanism of action in his book, The Earthwise Herbal: A Complete Guide to Old World Medicinal Plants: “It releases synovial fluid into the bursa and disperses internal fluids into the surrounding tissues, lubricating joints, muscles, bones, and ligaments. Disinfectant: Brewing the leaves into a tea or tincture can be used as a disinfectant Other than an occasional hot flash, I experienced no other discomforts associated with my new state of being ~ except, when I laughed too hard, tears rolled down my legs. Prepared either as an infusion or taken in small doses as a tincture, it's been a lifesaver for me when working a bit too gung-ho has me wake up the next morning with my back ‘kinked’ and not quite able to straighten up. - Matthew Wood, Earthwise Herbal (Old World Plants)3. Fresh mullein leaves are also used for … 3-Ingredient Mullein Tea Recipe Ingredients: – 1.5 cups water – 2 teaspoons mullein leaves and/or flowers – 1 teaspoon dried spearmint (optional) – 1 teaspoon raw honey (optional) Method: 1. This article reviews whether kalonji may aid weight loss, as well as…, Shepherd’s purse is a traditional herbal remedy that’s often used to reduce bleeding. Accessed September 26, 2017. Join Herbalist Yarrow Willard in another addition of the Herbal Jedi Video series. Mullein is an attractive flowering landscape plant with a rich history as an herbal remedy. It is also indicated in spinal dryness, inflexibility, and pain, and nerve pain along pinched or irritated nerve tracts.”10. With so much information packed onto every product label, it can be tricky to know where to start when looking to add a supplement to your diet. Mullein is mildly relaxing, helps to promote calm feelings, and fights against anxiety. Some people take mullein by mouthfor breathing conditions such as coughor asthma, pneumonia, colds, and sore throat. Mullein is especially useful for bronchitis and for “dry, irritable, tickly coughs - the tickle sensation is usually evidence of inflammation conjoined with water stuck in the mucosa.” 6 The rest of us often describe this irritating symptom as a hacking cough. May Help Fight Viral Infections. Vetiver oil is a lesser-known essential oil, but it has powerful properties. Mullein is a hyperaccumulator of heavy metals. Expectorants help to stimulate the secretion of phlegm. A friend of mine with a newborn baby rarely left the confines of her house for months. your information and you can easily unsubscribe at any time. For one thing, it’s incredibly relaxing, and it has a strong anti-inflammatory effect, so much so, it has been … It may be especially effective at ... May help fight viral infections. There are over 200 species of mullein, and they can be found around the world, including the United States. - Boldsky.com Did You Know These Health Benefits Of Mullein? "Search for Antiviral Activity of Certain Medicinal Plants from Córdoba, Argentina." Although limited human research is available, one study in 180 children indicated that this herb may treat ear infections, which are often caused by bacteria (13). This…. Its small, yellow flowers are densely grouped on a tall stem, which grows from a large rosette of leaves. The flowers and leaves of the plant are also used to treat other respiratory ailments, such as tuberculosis, bronchitis, tonsillitis, and pneumonia. It is a hairy biennial plant that can grow to 2 m tall or more. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine: eCAM 6, no. Fights Infections. The bottom of the stalk will have leaves growing alternatively and becoming smaller with height. It is recommended internally, as a tea or tincture, as well as used externally over the affected area.8. This article examines the uses, benefits, and side effects of mullein tea — and tells you how to make it. Here are five medicinal uses of mullein, as well as four ways you can prepare it. Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is an herbaceous plant that produces large, woolly, grayish-green leaves and bright yellow flowers in summer, followed by egg-shaped, pale brown fruits in fall. It is a mild relaxant to the lungs and also a mild demulcent. Mullein often grows in colonies – where you find one mullein plant you find many! "Antiviral Activity of Some Plants Used in Nepalese Traditional Medicine." Read about how Rosalee went from having a terminal illness to being a bestselling author in her full story here. One laboratory study found combining the medication amantadine with mullein increased antiviral activity... Side effects. More recently, mullein root has become popularized for back pain. In addition to back pain, mullein root is also used to address a variety of urinary incontinence issues, including stress incontinence, pregnancy incontinence, menopausal incontinence, and childhood incontinence.