MULLEIN

(Verbascum thapsus; Verbasci filia; SCROPHULARIACEAE)

Part used:  Leaves, flowers, root, and fruit.

Therapeutic action:

Demulcent, astringent, emollient, pectoral, nutritive, absorbent, diuretic, antiseptic, hemostasis, anodyne, narcotic, anti-asthmatic, anti-catarrhal, antispasmodic, vulnerary, germicide, and anthelmintic (germicide).

Mullein has a special affinity (attraction) for the respiratory organs and is a valuable remedy for all pulmonary complaints. It is the only herb known to man that has remarkable narcotic properties without being poisonous and harmful. It is a great herbal pain killer and nervous soporific, calming and quieting all inflamed and irritated nerves. With its use in wasting disorders (such as phthisis), the weight is steadily increased, expectoration is easy, cough is palliated, and the general condition improved. mullein soothes and strengthens the bowels and renal system, is one of the most important agents for influencing the glandular system (the serious and mucous membranes). It promotes absorption of effusion (escape of fluids from their vessels, as by rupture) and morbid accumulations.

Medicinal uses:

Pulmonary disease, catarrhal cough, tuberculosis, hemorrhage of lungs, dysentery, diarrhea, glandular swellings, thickening of lung tissue, ptysis, asthma, hay fever, pleuritic effusion (pleurisy), cellular dropsy, synovial dropsy, scrofula, chronic abscesses, bronchitis, cramps, spasms, ear diseases, asthma, croup, dyspnea, sinusitis, sciatica, inflammatory rheumatism, toothache, open sores, pain, warts, inflamed hemorrhoids (piles), ulcers, tumors, mumps, tonsillitis, malignant sore throat, swollen joints, dysentery diarrhea, bleeding bowels, swollen testicle or scrotum, nasal congestion or catarrh, scrofula, sprains, and mastitis (gathered breasts).

Preparation:

Decoction, fluid extract, infusion, powder, and tincture.