Foraging for wild edibles and medicinal plants is a great way to connect with nature and gain a deeper understanding of the natural world around us. One such plant that has a long history of medicinal use and can be found growing in many parts of the world is mullein (Verbascum thapsus). In this post, we’ll explore its history, how to identify mullein, where to find it, and the many medicinal benefits of this versatile herb.
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History of Mullein
Mullein has a long history of use as a medicinal plant. The ancient Greeks used mullein to treat respiratory problems, while the Romans used it to treat wounds and infections. Native American tribes also used mullein for a variety of medicinal purposes, including treating coughs, sore throats, and respiratory infections.
Identifying Mullein
When it comes to identifying mullein, there are a few key characteristics to keep in mind. First and foremost, mullein is a biennial plant, meaning it completes its life cycle over the course of two years. In its first year, it typically forms a low-lying rosette of large, soft, and fuzzy leaves. These leaves are oblong or lance-shaped, and they can reach up to 12 inches in length. They have a unique grayish-green color, which sets them apart from other plants in the wild.
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As mullein enters its second year, it undergoes a transformation, sending up a tall flowering stalk that can reach heights of 5 to 8 feet. This distinctive stalk is covered with small, yellow flowers clustered closely together, creating a vibrant and eye-catching display. The flowers have a slight fragrance and bloom from the bottom of the stalk upwards, developing over the course of several weeks from late spring to early summer.
Where to Find Mullein
In terms of habitat, mullein can be found in a range of environments, from open fields and meadows to roadsides, disturbed areas, and abandoned fields. It is commonly seen in areas with full sun exposure, as mullein thrives in bright and sunny conditions. You may also spot it growing along fence lines or the edges of forests, where it can benefit from some protection and partial shade. Mullein makes a great plant to grow in your own medicinal garden to ensure you know exactly what goes into your medicine!
Medicinal Benefits
Mullein has many medicinal properties and can be used in a variety of ways. Understanding the benefits of mullein will shed light on why it has been revered throughout history and why it continues to captivate modern foragers. Here are some of the most common uses of this versatile herb:
Respiratory Health
One of the primary benefits of mullein is its soothing effect on the respiratory system. For centuries, mullein has been used as a natural remedy for coughs, bronchitis, and other respiratory ailments. Its high mucilage content helps to coat and soothe irritated airways, providing relief from coughing and promoting easier breathing. The leaves of the plant can be made into a tea or smoked to help open up the airways and reduce inflammation.
Another notable benefit of mullein is its expectorant properties. The herb has been found to help loosen and expel excess mucus from the lungs, making it an excellent choice for individuals dealing with congestion and respiratory congestion. By promoting the removal of mucus, mullein can help improve respiratory function and decrease coughing.
Skin Health
Mullein has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that make it useful for treating skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and rashes. It can be made into a salve or oil and applied topically to the affected area.
Ear Infections
Mullein oil is a popular remedy for ear infections. The oil can be applied directly to the ear to help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
Pain Relief
Mullein has analgesic properties that make it useful for reducing pain and inflammation. It can be used to treat headaches, menstrual cramps, and other types of pain.
Digestive Health
Mullein is a mild laxative that can be used to treat constipation. It can also help soothe and heal the digestive system, making it useful for treating stomach ulcers and other digestive issues.
How Mullein Heals
Mullein contains a range of compounds that are responsible for its many medicinal properties.
Mucilage
The leaves and flowers of the plant contain mucilage, which is a complex mixture of polysaccharides that provide a soothing and emollient effect. This makes mullein useful for treating respiratory conditions, as it can help to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated mucous membranes.
Flavonoids
Furthermore, the plant also contains flavonoids, which are a group of polyphenolic compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Flavonoids are thought to be responsible for mullein’s ability to treat skin conditions and to promote wound healing.
Saponins
Additionally, mullein contains saponins, which are natural detergents that have expectorant and antitussive properties. These compounds help to break up mucus and facilitate its removal from the respiratory tract, making mullein useful for treating coughs and bronchitis.
Volatile Oils
Finally, mullein contains several volatile oils, including verbascoside, which have antimicrobial properties and may help to prevent or treat infections.
Overall, mullein’s diverse chemical composition contributes to its many medicinal properties and makes it a valuable herb for natural healing.
Contraindications
While mullein is generally considered safe for most people, there are some individuals who should avoid using it. People who are allergic to plants in the Scrophulariaceae family, which includes mullein, should avoid using the herb. Additionally, pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult with a healthcare provider before using mullein, as there is limited research on its safety during pregnancy and lactation. People who are taking medications that affect blood sugar levels should also use caution, as mullein may lower blood sugar levels and interact with these medications. Finally, people with kidney disease should avoid using mullein, as the plant contains oxalic acid, which can contribute to the formation of kidney stones in high concentrations.
Harvest And Storage
When harvesting mullein, it is important to choose a sunny day when the plant is dry. The best time of day to harvest mullein is in the morning after the dew has dried, but before the heat of the day. The leaves and flowers of the plant can be harvested throughout the growing season, but the best time to harvest them is when the flowers are fully open and the leaves are young and tender.
To harvest mullein, use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the leaves and flowers off the stem. It is important to only take a few leaves from each plant, as taking too much can harm the plant and reduce its ability to grow and produce seeds. When harvesting the flowers, it is best to take the whole flower stalk, as this will encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
Mullein Leaf Cut & Sift Organic
Mullein Leaf is packed with antioxidants and has a long history of providing a multitude of benefits to help support overall body health.*
Mullein Oil Organic
Herbal infused oils make a wonderful addition to homemade salves, ointments, lotions, and other body care products.
They can also be incorporated into massage oils and homemade soaps.
You can even add them to a warm bath
Equinox Mullein Garlic Ear Oil
The combination of herbal ingredients with including garlic, calendula, yarrow, and natural vitamin E oil allow for a wide spectrum of ear problems to be addressed.
Yogi® Breathe Deep® Tea
Relax and breathe in the enchanting aroma of Yogi’s Breathe Deep tea. This blend of herbs includes Thyme and soothing, aromatic Eucalyptus. Warming spices Cinnamon, Cardamom, and Ginger, combine with Licorice for a naturally spicy-sweet blend.
Mullein Leaf Extract Organic
Made with premium quality Certified Organic Mullein Leaf.
Drying For Long-Term Storage
Once the leaves and flowers have been harvested, they can be dried for long-term storage. To dry mullein, spread the leaves and flowers out in a single layer on a clean, dry surface, such as a screen or a towel. Allow the plant material to air dry in a warm, well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight. Once the leaves and flowers are completely dry, they can be stored in an airtight container, such as a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid, in a cool, dry place away from light. Stored in this way, dried mullein leaves and flowers can last for up to a year.
Using a dehydrator is another effective way to dry mullein leaves and flowers for long-term storage. Here’s how to do it:
- Wash the leaves and flowers thoroughly and pat them dry with a towel.
- Arrange the leaves and flowers in a single layer on the trays of the dehydrator, making sure they are not touching each other.
- Set the dehydrator to a temperature of 95°F to 115°F (35°C to 46°C) and allow the plant material to dry for 4 to 8 hours, or until the leaves and flowers are crisp and brittle.
- Check the leaves and flowers periodically to ensure that they are drying evenly and not becoming over-dried or burnt.
- Once the leaves and flowers are completely dry, remove them from the dehydrator and allow them to cool to room temperature.
- Store the dried mullein leaves and flowers in an airtight container, such as a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid, in a cool, dry place away from light.
Using a dehydrator can be a convenient way to dry mullein leaves and flowers, as it allows for precise temperature control and can speed up the drying process. However, it is important to make sure that the dehydrator is set to a low temperature to prevent the plant material from being damaged or losing its medicinal properties.
Conclusion
Mullein is a versatile and healing herb that can be found growing in many parts of the world. Its long history of medicinal use and many health benefits make it a valuable plant to forage for and include in your natural medicine cabinet. If you’re interested in foraging for mullein, be sure to properly identify the plant and only harvest it from areas that are free from pesticides and other pollutants.
