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Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)

by Sarah Wang

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)

Common Names: Aaron’s rod, blanket leaves, candle wick plant, velvet leaf, bunny ears, great mullein, flannel flower, Jacobs staff

Family: Scrophulariaceae

Parts Used: leaves & flowers

Constituents: mucilage, flavonoids, saponins, essential oil, tannins, glycosides, sterile, sugar

Medicinal Actions: Anodyne, anti-tussive, expectorant, demulcent, anti-tuberculosis, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, nervine, alterative, astringent, analgesic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, children’s remedy, vulnerary, emollient

Medicinal Use:

  1. Respiratory health: Mullein may have a soothing effect on the respiratory tract and can help to reduce inflammation and irritation caused by conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, and coughs.

  2. Ear infections: Mullein oil is traditionally used to treat ear infections by applying it directly to the ear canal.

  3. Skin health: Topical application of mullein may help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the skin, making it useful for treating conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.

  4. Pain relief: Mullein may have analgesic properties and may help to reduce pain caused by conditions such as headaches and menstrual cramps.

  5. Digestive health: Mullein may help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract, making it useful for treating conditions such as ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and diarrhea.

Historically, mullein has been used in traditional medicine for a wide range of health conditions, including respiratory and digestive disorders, ear infections, and pain relief. It was also used as a natural dye and as a torch wick.

Contraindications: Too much yin, air, or vata

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