Mullein Plant

It is most commonly found in the Mediterranean region, Europe and Asia. In Asia they go as far as the Himalayas, and are also found in Ireland, Scotland and Channel Islands. Is appearance is beautiful, with a rosette of leaves at the bottom, which have dense white hair on both sides of the leaves.

Yellow and white flowers grow on its stem. The plant grows five to six feet in height. The yellow flowers of the mullein are covered with white filaments that contain sap. This sap is a bait for insects and all types of insects are attracted to the nectar of this flower.

The plant has astringent properties and is sedative and narcotic in nature which is useful for lung and bowel complaints. The leaves in the dry form are used to smoke tobacco in pipes to relieve throat irritation and asthma. The leaves are neutral and have a pungent taste. It contains gum, resin and a little tannin in it that gives it the medicinal qualities. When the leaves are boiled in milk it results in a concoction that helps relieve cough and soothes irritation in the lungs and other respiratory organs. This herb also helps cure diarrhoea and the potion made from the leaves are used. Mostly the leaves are boiled in water and given to the patient.

The flowers of this herb are used against ringworm. The distilled water from the plants is used to soothe burns. The oil extracted from the flowers is used to alleviate piles, frostbites and other membrane inflammations. Their oil is also recommended for ear-aches. Powder made from its roots is used to remove warts. Even its seeds are utilized as they have the ability to intoxicate fish. Thus, the poachers use it to capture fish. The alcohol made from this plant also helps soothe migraines and sick headaches. This medicinal herb has been into the 4th Edition of the United States National Formulary for its remedies.

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