Did You Know?
Mullein (Vebascum) has been used by various Native American tribes to help with respiratory pain and relieve coughing spasms. Native Americans would dry out mullein leaves, crush and then smoke the leaves to relieve congestion due to hay fever or other respiratory distress. We don’t recommend smoking of any type today! The most common way to ingest mullein is by creating a simple tea from the leaves and flowers. Mullein is a pioneer biannual plant and can be spotted along forest preserves and highways.
Mullein Plant
The flowers typically yellow, but it depends on the species of mullein. The colors can vary from white to blue, purple, and red. The flowers occupy approximately half of the stem. It is the mullein leaves and flowers that are used medicinally. Fresh mullein leaves and flowers are also used for making homeopathic tinctures. The infused oils of mullein leaves and flowers are used to create drops to help earaches and ear infections.
Mullein Plant
The mullein plant can grow up to 7 feet high with leaves that grow as large as 22 inches long! The pale gray leaves grow soft and hairs-like, and were even used as toilet paper by Native Americans tribes in the past!
What does this mean for you?
Mullein has been used as an herbal remedy for asthma, colds or coughs, sore throat, ear infections, a mild sedative and to help support your respiratory system.
