Organic Mullein Leaf (Verbascum thapsus)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Mullein Leaf (Verbascum thapsus)

Family: Scrophulariaceae

Common Names: Great Mullein, Common Mullein, Velvet Plant, Aaron's Rod

Botanical Description: Mullein is a biennial herb that can grow up to 6-10 feet tall. In its first year, it forms a basal rosette of large, soft, woolly leaves that are covered in fine, velvety hairs. These leaves are oblong or lance-shaped, gray-green, and can grow up to 20 inches long. In the second year, the plant sends up a tall, erect flowering stalk covered with yellow flowers. The entire plant has a soft, velvety texture due to the dense covering of hairs.

Habitat and Cultivation: Mullein is native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia but has spread widely across temperate regions, including North America. It thrives in disturbed soils, along roadsides, fields, and open areas. Mullein prefers well-drained soil and full sun and is often considered a weed due to its ability to colonize quickly.

Parts Used: Leaves (the flowers and roots are also used medicinally)

Historical and Folklore Uses:

Mullein has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, particularly for respiratory conditions. The ancient Greeks and Romans used mullein leaves as a remedy for lung diseases, and Native American tribes used it for coughs, colds, and as a poultice for wounds. Mullein leaves were also used as lamp wicks, hence the name "candlewick plant." In folklore, mullein was believed to ward off evil spirits and was often hung in doorways for protection.

Energetics and Taste:

• Energetics: Cooling, moistening
• Taste: Mild, slightly bitter, mucilaginous

Medicinal Actions:

• Expectorant: Helps to loosen and expel mucus from the respiratory tract.
• Demulcent: Soothes and protects irritated mucous membranes, particularly in the respiratory system.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation in the lungs, throat, and other mucous membranes.
• Antispasmodic: Relieves muscle spasms, particularly in the respiratory and digestive systems.
• Astringent: Tightens tissues and reduces irritation, making it helpful for minor wounds and skin conditions.
• Antimicrobial: Fights bacterial and viral infections, particularly in the respiratory system.

System Affinities:

• Respiratory System: Mullein leaf is most commonly used to treat respiratory conditions such as coughs, colds, bronchitis, asthma, and pneumonia. Its expectorant and demulcent properties help to soothe the lungs, reduce inflammation, and expel mucus. It is especially effective for dry, irritating coughs and respiratory infections.
• Skin: Mullein leaves can be used externally as a poultice to treat minor wounds, burns, and skin irritations. The leaves' anti-inflammatory and astringent properties make them effective in reducing swelling and promoting healing.
• Digestive System: The mild astringent and demulcent properties of mullein leaves can soothe the digestive tract, particularly in cases of irritation or mild inflammation. Mullein is sometimes used to treat diarrhea or colitis.

Active Compounds:

• Saponins: Compounds with expectorant properties that help to loosen and expel mucus from the respiratory tract.
• Flavonoids: Antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative stress.
• Mucilage: A gel-like substance that soothes and protects irritated mucous membranes, contributing to the demulcent properties of mullein.
• Iridoids: Anti-inflammatory compounds that help to reduce inflammation in the respiratory and digestive systems.
• Tannins: Astringent compounds that tighten tissues, reduce irritation, and promote healing.

Uses:

1. Respiratory Health: Mullein leaf is widely used in teas, tinctures, and syrups to treat respiratory conditions such as coughs, bronchitis, asthma, and pneumonia. Its expectorant and demulcent properties help to soothe the lungs, reduce inflammation, and expel mucus.
2. Cough Relief: Mullein is particularly effective for treating dry, irritating coughs. It helps to coat and soothe the throat while promoting the expulsion of mucus.
3. Topical Applications: Mullein leaves can be applied as a poultice to treat minor wounds, burns, rashes, and other skin irritations. The leaves' astringent and anti-inflammatory properties make them effective in reducing swelling and promoting healing.
4. Digestive Support: Mullein's mild astringent and demulcent effects can be used to soothe the digestive tract, particularly in cases of irritation or mild inflammation. It can help treat conditions such as diarrhea or colitis.
5. Ear Infections: While mullein flowers are more commonly used for ear infections, the leaves can also be used in infusions or as part of a warm compress to help relieve pain and inflammation in the ears.

Cautions:

• Allergies: Individuals with allergies to plants in the Scrophulariaceae family (such as foxglove) should use mullein with caution, as allergic reactions are possible.
• Skin Irritation: The tiny hairs on mullein leaves can cause skin irritation or a prickly sensation in some individuals, especially when handling fresh leaves. It is recommended to strain mullein tea or tinctures well to remove any residual hairs.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Mullein is generally considered safe, but it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before using it during pregnancy or breastfeeding, particularly in medicinal amounts.

Research and Studies:

1. A study published in Journal of Ethnopharmacology highlighted the expectorant and anti-inflammatory effects of mullein leaves, supporting their traditional use in treating respiratory conditions .
2. Research in Phytotherapy Research demonstrated the antimicrobial properties of mullein, particularly against respiratory pathogens, validating its use in treating infections .
3. Another study in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies explored the effectiveness of mullein leaf in treating respiratory conditions like bronchitis and asthma, confirming its traditional uses as a respiratory tonic.