Mullein

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) also known as Lungwort, Candlewick plant, Hag or Hedge taper Jacob’s staff, Beggar’s stalk and Aaron’s rod. ” The plant’s soft leaves also are known commonly as bunny’s ears and flannel leaf. Mullein tea is a traditional treatment for respiratory problems, such as chest colds, bronchitis and asthma. Mullein leaf tea is slightly bitter, a tea of the flowers is sweeter and a bit peppery. Both the leaves and flowers contain mucilage, which is soothing to irritated membranes, and saponins, which make coughs more productive. Research has shown that the herb has strong anti-inflammatory activity, and lab studies suggest that mullein flower infusions have antiviral properties, as well. My favorite "Lung Tea" is a blend of Mullein leaf, Marshmallow root, Fennel seeds and Plantain leaf sweetened with cherry bark infused honey. I make a whole plant (roots, leaves and flowers) tincture in 100 proof vodka for skeletal pain particularly back pain and lung complaints such as asthma and dry coughs. I infuse the slightly jalapeno tasting flowers with garlic in olive oil for earaches and dry the flowers for teas.

You can make a nourishing infusion with the leaves for lung health and a nice boost of calcium and magnesium. Oddly you can dry the leaves and smoke it to relax your lungs, weird right, but it works. I also roll and dry the leaves, wrap them with twine and dip them in beeswax for fire starters. A decoction of the root will reduce inflammation of the bladder.

Traditional uses generally have focused on the management of respiratory disorders where it was used to treat asthma, coughs, tuberculosis, bronchitis and related respiratory problems as well as earaches. In the middle ages an old herbal says, "If a man beareth one twig of this wort, he will not be terrified by any awe, nor will a wild beast hurt him, or any evil coming near". Mullein also enjoyed a magical reputation as a protector against witches and their spells. It was planted in monastery gardens to ward off evil spirits and as protection from the devil.

Cautions: The small hairs on mullein leaf may cause irritation in the mouth and throat if not filtered out of extracts, teas and infusions prior to consumption. Contact dermatitis is possible for sensitive individuals. (those little hairs on the leaves) And as always use common sense when using herbs.