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Mullein - Benefits And Side Effects

Botanical name: Verbascum thapsus

Actions: Absorbent, anodyne, anthelmintic (vermicide), anti-asthmatic, anticatarrhal, antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, demulcent, diuretic, emollient, germicide, hemostatic, narcotic, nutritive, pectoral, vulnerary.

Parts used : Leaves, flowers, root and fruit.

Mullein is native to much of Europe and Asia and is naturalized to North America. There are over 360 species of Verbascum with V. thapsus, V. phlomides, and V. densiflorum mentioned most often in herbal texts. The leaves and flowers are both used medicinally.

Mullein is a tall, weedy, unbranched, biennial that grows to 7 feet in height. It is hairy and soft. Leaves are widely oblanceolate and oblong 2 to 12 inches long. Flowers are yellow, densely arranged along a terminal club-like spike.

Medical uses and benefits of Mullein

• Mullein is one of the great expectorants (removes mucus and congestion).
• Used especially for bronchial and lung conditions including bronchitis, asthma, emphy­sema, pneumonia and allergies.
• Mullein is also strongly anti-inflammatory, aiding in all types of inflammatory conditions.
• A great herb for the endocrine glandular system, especially the thyroid.
• Used for coughs and sore throats.
• Mullein has strong astringent properties as well.
• Aids in the movement of the lymphatic system.
• Helps reduce tumors and boils.

Cautions

• Mullein is generally safe except for rare reports of skin irritation.