How to Use Mullein and its Medicinal Benefits

Due to not having the wisdom of our great grandmothers passed down we are literally walking over medicine. One powerful plant that we regard as a weed but has numerous medicinal properties is mullein. In this post, I want to share how you can use mullein for a multitude of ailments or just supportive health.

You have probably seen mullein around in many places. It generally grows pretty good in poor soil. Therefore, you will find it in fields, along the side of the rood, in the woods, or in dry sandy rocky soil. Mullein is commonly known as a weed, but has many uses as a medicinal plant. The scientific name of the mullein is verbascum thapsus. Old folks may call it cowboy toilet paper, velvet plant or beggar's plant.

 The leaves of mullein are green to grey in color and have small fuzzy hairs all over them. The leaves grow in a small rosette the first year and then branch out more in the second year of growth. In the first year of growth, the mullein plant does not grow any flowers. In its second year, mullein grows a tall stalk of yellow flowers from the middle of the rosette. The leaves grow slightly up the flower stalk and can become very tall growing up to 6 to 7 feet tall.

Both the leaves and flowers can be used. The first year leaves are the strongest medicinally. But, you can still use the the leaves in the second year when the plant has started flowering.

Mullein has so many medicinal properties that make it effecting in treating so many ailments and conditions. In African American medicine and healing traditions, mullein is often used to treat colds, coughs, congestion, bronchitis, ear infections, and viral infections.

It is really rich with minerals, vitamins and essential nutrients including iron, magnesium, sulfur, complex B vitamins and more. Mullein leaves contain antibacterial, antimicrobial, antioxidant, demulcent, and sedative properties. So, you see, mullein is an excellent herb to have in your home apothecary.

Mullein Preparations

Mullein Leaf Tea for Coughs and Congestion

Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 to 2 teaspoonsful of dried mullein flowers and leaves. Cover and steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain and drink up to 3 cups daily. Sweeten with local honey if you like. You can also add cayenne pepper, lemon and blend with peppermint or bay leaves.

Mullein Leaf Smoke for Congestion

Pack a pipe or make a cigarette out of dried mullein leaves. Smoke and inhale a few times to relieve pulmonary congestion. You can also add herbs like peppermint or thyme, which is a great expectorant.

Mullein Leaf Bath

Cut about 6 to 8 dried leaves and put in 8 cups of water. Boil in a pot. Soak your feet or your body in a bath for at least 20 minutes. You can add Epsom salt, yarrow or peppermint and lavender.

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