Mullein

MULLEIN: Latin Name: Verbascum thapsus
Mullein has numerous alternate names including Velvet Dock, Witch's Candle, Hags Taper, Jupiter's Staff, Our Lady's Flannel, Beggar's Blanket, Candlewick, Girl Scouts Toilet Paper, Lungwort.

Though some of them may be a bit humorous, they are very descriptive of the many uses for mullein.

Medicinally, mullein leaves are used primarily for sinus infections, asthma, hay fever and other respiratory ailments. Some people praise it as a remedy for chronic hay fever and sinusitis that lead to bronchitis, and say they have successfully replaced their prescription medications with it.

Flowers can be infused in oil with garlic for a topical treatment of ear infections. Oil infused with mullein flowers has been used for treatment of frostbite, ringworm, hemorrhoids, and bruises.

When using the leaves as a tea be sure to strain it through a very fine filter as the tiny hairs on the leaves can be irritating to the throat.

As with any herbal remedy, be sure to contact your health practitioner before adding mullein to any prescription regimen.