Mullien Leaf
Historically, Mullein has been used by herbalists as a remedy for the respiratory tract, particularly in cases of irritating coughs with bronchial congestion. The tall stalks of this plant were once dipped in tallow and lit as torches. The leaves, though somewhat irritating, were also worn in the shoes to improve circulation to the feet and to buffer thinning soles. The soft Mullein leaves have long been used by children as doll blankets. The seeds were once used by Native Americans to paralyze fish and make them easier to catch. The primary chemical constituents of Mullein include resin, saponins, glycoside (aucubin), flavonoids (hesperidin, verbascoside), choline, magnesium, saponins, mucilage, tannins, and carotene. Mullein also contains iron, magnesium, potassium, sulphur, and calcium phosphate.
Different parts of the plant have different properties. Leaves are anodyne, antibacterial, antispasmodic, astringent, demulcent, diuretic, expectorant, mucilaginous, sedative, and vulnerary. The flowers are antispasmodic, demulcent, emollient, mucilaginous, nervine, and sedative. In general, Mullein soothes the respiratory tract. Due to its mucilage content, Mullein has also been used topically by herbalists as a soothing emollient for inflammatory skin conditions and burns. Externally, an extract of this herb made in olive oil is excellent in soothing and healing any inflamed surface or easing ear problems.
Mullein has also been known to soften stools, act as a stimulant, and may be useful for people who are anxious.
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