Mullein
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Verbascum thapsus
Energetics : Moistening + Cooling
Herbal Properties : Mucilant, Expectorant, and Lung Tonic
Mullein is a a gorgeous, fuzzy, bushy green plant with a tall stalk in the middle that grows vibrant yellow flowers. Some consider Mullein a weed since it can sprouts up on its own in so many places, even in rocky, compact soil.
Mullein is native to Africa and some parts of Asia and Europe, but you can also find it here in North America since the European settlers brought it over.
Mullein has been used for thousands of years for respiratory health. It is an expectorant, meaning it expels mucus. It is known as being a ‘lung tonic’ which makes it great for asthma and other respiratory ailments (Source 3).
It also shows antioxidant, anticarcinogenic (anticancer), and antimicrobial properties (Source 1). Mullein also shows anti-inflammtory properties (Source 2).
Mullein can be taken as a tea, a tincture, or a syrup.
Did you know? Mullein tea was often used in the Middle Ages to relieve congestion, remedy coughs and colds, and soothe asthma.
Precautions :
Mullein seeds are toxic and should not be consumed. Mullein leaves and flowers are considered generally safe. No other known precautions. When in doubt, seek medical professional. None of this is medical advice.
Sources :
(1) Antioxidant, Anticarcinogenic, and Antimicrobial Properties of Mullein
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31456524/
(2) Mullein’s Anti Inflammatory Properties
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19828096/
(3) Mullein and Respiratory Conditions
Easley, T., & Horne, S. H. (2016). Chapter 13. In The modern herbal dispensatory: A medicine-making guide. essay, North Atlantic Books.
Johnson, R. L., Foster, S., Dog, T. L., Kiefer, D., & Weil, A. (2014). Chapter 2. In National Geographic Guide to Medicinal Herbs: The world's most effective healing plants. essay, National Geographic.