Mullein is a plant that has benefits, but also contraindications that should be known. We begin by detailing the botanical aspect.
It is biennial and can grow up to six feet (1.8 m) tall, although it averages about four feet (1.2 m) tall. It grows best in dry, open spaces, and for this reason it can often be seen on the side of roads or in vacant lots.
Mullein is an erect plant that grows as a rosette of thick, gray leaves in its first year. In the second year, a cluster of fragrant yellow flowers sprout from the top, giving the plant its height.
Historic information Europeans are believed to have discovered the medicinal potential of the common mullein on the island of Thapsos in Greece, hence its botanical name, Verbascum thapsus. Ancient physicians, such as Galen, Hippocrates, Pliny, and Dioscorides, wrote about the various medicinal uses of herbs.
The plant was introduced to North America by European settlers and was commonly used as a remedy for coughs and diarrhea. Mullein later became known as «Quaker rouge» because Quaker girls were said to rub it on their cheeks to turn them red.
In the 19th century, people smoked mullein roots or dried flowers to treat respiratory illnesses and asthma symptoms.
popular beliefs Before the 16th century, mullein was believed to be a magical plant. In both European and West Asian cultures, mullein was used to ward off evil spirits and black magic. According to folk lore, witches used mullein stems as lamp wicks to shed light on their dark rituals, which is why the plant was also known as ‘burning candle’ or ‘witch’s taper’.
In Greek mythology, Ulisses wore mullein to ward off the enchantments of the sorceress Circe. When the first European settlers introduced the plan to North America, Native Americans adopted many of its traditional uses and gave it spiritual value in many of their sacred rituals.
Economic data Historically, the economic importance of this plant was based on its use as a torch, fish bait, and as a healing agent. Because it grows wild in many places, mullein cultivation has not had a significant economic impact.
Other uses
Colorant. He mullein It continues to be one of the preferred plants for the manufacture of natural hair dyes.
Personal hygiene. The sheet is used by campers as a natural alternative to toilet paper, and can also be used as diapers, food wrappers, and even comfortable shoe inserts. However, caution should be used when using dried leaves, as they can irritate the skin due to the tiny hairs that cover them.
Fishing. Mullein was also traditionally used to stun fish to catch them in large numbers, and this practice is still used today in some parts of the world.
.
Mullein Benefits
The anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties of mullein have been used traditionally for a variety of ailments, including:
Treat respiratory infections. Mullein is useful for treating coughs, sore throats, bronchitis and tuberculosis, as well as asthma and croup. It can also clear the airways of congestion due to sinusitis, hay fever, and chronic colds.
Soothe inflammatory pain. The antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties of mullein have traditionally been used to treat earaches and headaches, as well as nerve pain, arthritis and rheumatism.
Support the nervous system. Due to its ability to stimulate or strengthen neural function, mullein is also used to treat stress and depression. anxietyas well as nervous palpitations, cramps and colic.
Learn how to prepare mullein oil for coughs, ear inflammation and more
In addition, the astringent properties and anti-inflammatory Mullein have traditionally been used for the topical treatment of hemorrhoids, minor wounds, and debris, as well as to improve kidney health and urinary tract problems, such as cystitis and urinary tract problems. fluid retention.
.
How does it work
Mullein contains several useful compounds, primarily saponins, tannins, and mucilage, which are believed to be largely responsible for the medicinal actions of the herb.
Mullein contains around 3% mucilage, which is part of the reason the plant is often used for respiratory ailments. It is also believed that the expectorant qualities of the plant are due to its saponins. Gordolin extracts have shown antibacterial activity, effectively inhibiting strains such as Klebsiella pneumonia, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Escherichia coli.
Flavonoids are directly associated with antioxidant activity, making mullein an excellent antioxidant. Iridoid glycosides are the components responsible for mullein’s anti-inflammatory activity, and tannins give the plant an astringent effect. Additionally, the volatile oils give the plant its healing qualities from wounds.
Herbs well known for their decongestant and antibacterial activities are fangs, eucalyptus, and hibiscus. On the other hand, inflammatory properties can be found in ginger and turmeric.
Maybe you are interested in knowing
.
Contraindications and side effects
Mulleins are generally considered safe for topical and oral use; however, sensitive individuals may experience skin inflammation or drowsiness after consumption
Due to a lack of studies, mullein consumption is not recommended for pregnant and lactating women. Mullein should not be given to children.
Similarly, mullein should be used with caution in people taking blood thinners, and those with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to mullein should avoid its consumption.
Also know
Rue: Benefits and contraindications
Estafiate tea: benefits, how to prepare it and contraindications
Devil’s Claw: Benefits and contraindications
Infusions to relieve sore throat
asthma diet
video of the month