Nature's Pharmacy: Ancient Knowledge, Modern Medicine
Mullein
Verbascum thapsus
Name, Habitat and Appearance
The common name mullein is derived from the Latin word mullis meaning "soft." Mullein is also known as Adam's flannel; Beggar's blanket; Bunny's ears; Flannel flower; Pig taper; Torch weed; Velvet plant; and Verbascum flowers, to name a few.
The mullein is a biennial that reaches 6 feet in height. It has large, velvety leaves and small, dense, yellow flowers. Mullein is a Eurasian native that has been naturalized in some temperate zones. It grows wild on stony ground in wasteland, woodland clearings, and roadsides. It does well in shallow, well-drained, nitrogen-rich soils. Mullein can be propagated from seed sown as soon as it is ripe or in the spring. Mullein will not tolerate cold, wet conditions.
Legends & Folklore
The flowering stem was used dried by Greeks & Romans as a taper dipped in tallow for light. Mullein torches were said to repel witches. There is evidence that at one time it was a "magical plant" of the ancients. Agrippa, a general and minister under Caesar Augustus, claimed that the scent from the leaves had an overpowering effect on demons. Mullein was thought to be an ingredient in brews and love potions, and mentioned in incantations used by witches during the Middle Ages. Turning to folklore for medical advice, however, had its drawbacks. For example, wearing mullein leaves was thought both to ensure conception and to protect against it.
Historical Uses
- In cough medicines
- Leaf and flower tea expectorant
- To soothe or protect mucous membrane
- To treat colds, asthma, bronchitis, coughs and kidney infections
- Poulticed for ulcers, tumors and hemorrhoids
- Flowers mixed with oil for eardrops
- Inhalant to relieve congestion
- Anti-inflammatory
- To treat cramps, fevers and migraine
- Smoking leaves as remedy for cough and asthma
- As a hair rinse
- In skin softeners
Warnings
If you have a history of cancer, consult your doctor before taking this herb internally, since the tannin found in mullein is thought to have cancer-causing actions. Although the leaves, flowers and roots seem to cause no adverse effects, mullein seeds are toxic. Do not take mullein if you are pregnant or nursing a baby. The hairs of the leaves may irritate skin.
Modern Medicinal Uses
Mullein is taken internally for respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, coughs, colds, flu and asthma, and for gastrointestinal ailments such as stomach cramps and diarrhea. It is applied externally to ulcers on the skin, and hemorrhoids. Eardrops of mullein blossoms in oil help to cure ear infections.
The photograph of mullein used in the exhibit.
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