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Mullein has been used in folk medicine for medicinal purposes for centuries, especially since it is very easy to grow. What are the properties of mullein and how is it used?

Mulleinis a biennial plant that can reach up to 1.5-2 meters in height. It was once called the "royal candle" because characteristic yellow flowers grow at the end of a long, straight stem, making it look dignified and magnificent. It is flowers that are collected for medicinal purposes.

Large-flowered mullein is mainly used in herbal medicine, and less often small-flowered mullein.

Mullein in herbal medicine supports the treatment of diseases of the upper respiratory tract and biliary tract, and is also used in menstrual disorders.

Contents:

  1. Mullein: how to harvest and grow?
  2. Mullein: he alth benefits
  3. Mullein: use in cosmetics
  4. Mullein: preparation method
  5. Mullein: contraindications

Mullein: how to harvest and grow?

Mullein flowers are very delicate, therefore the harvesting process must be carried out with the utmost care. They must be harvested in full bloom when the dew dries up, they should not be dried in the sun, but at the same time fresh flowers wilt quickly and lose their yellow color with time.

The cultivation of large-flowered mullein itself is simple. It is an undemanding plant that grows well both in fertile soils and on harder, more barren soil. It likes sunny and humid places, and is not sensitive to temperature changes. The large-leaved mullein can be found growing wild, e.g. in meadows or fields.

Mullein: he alth benefits

What determines the he alth-promoting properties of mullein? The ingredients it contains, including:

  • flavonoids with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
  • bactericidal tannins
  • diuretic and anti-inflammatory saponins
  • mucus compounds
  • resins
  • coumarin
  • essential oil
  • organic acids

It is thanks to them that mullein is great for respiratory ailments.

Mullein can be used in bronchitis, especially withresidual mucus, because systematically drunk infusion of this plant thins the phlegm and facilitates expectoration.

Mullein can also be used as a support in persistent, dry cough and in patients with asthma.

Mullein also soothes a sore throat and hoarseness, because it has a coating and protective effect.

Mullein is used not only in diseases of the respiratory system, but also in ailments of the digestive system. Works great with:

  • gastritis
  • diarrhea
  • intestinal spines

Externally, in the form of compresses, mullein can be used in the case of bruises, wounds, burns, bedsores or allergic reactions.

You can also add a few drops of mullein oil to the bath, because it has a relaxing and analgesic effect, e.g. relieves the pain associated with rheumatic diseases, and at the same time calms and calms down.

Mullein: use in cosmetics

Mullein is also used in the cosmetics industry. It can be found in the composition of hair bleaching preparations and shampoos that make hair shiny and soft.

Mullein also has disinfecting properties, which is why it is recommended for the care of acne-prone skin. It is also used, for example, in shower gels, because it cleanses the skin, soothes irritations and does not cause allergies.

Mullein: preparation method

To take advantage of the he alth-promoting properties of mullein, you need to prepare it:

  • infusion:to prepare the infusion, usually one tablespoon of mullein flowers is poured over half a liter of boiling water. It is brewed, covered, for about 10 minutes, then filtered and cooled. You can drink a tablespoon or two four times a day, or half a cup at a time with honey, a slice of orange, or a dash of vanilla
  • decoction:you need two tablespoons of mullein, poured over a liter of water. Then the mixture is simmered for about 15 minutes, but not brought to a boil. It's best to drink half or a full cup a day
  • oil for external use , incl. for wounds, ulcers, bruises, for bathing in rheumatic pains, but also traditionally used for ear infections. How to prepare the oil? Two handfuls of fresh mullein flowers should be put into a jar and covered with about two glasses of olive oil. We leave the jar unscrewed for 2 weeks, shaking it from time to time. Then strain the oil and keep it in a cool and shaded place.

If we do not have time to prepare the infusion ordecoction, you can buy ready-made mullein-based syrups at the pharmacy, administered three times a day for 15 ml.

Mullein: contraindications

A contraindication to the use of mullein is allergic to herbal ingredients, but it is extremely rare and most often manifests itself with skin irritation.

Mullein must not be used by pregnant and breastfeeding women, because in these cases it may cause undesirable effects.

Giving mullein to children under 12 is best discussed with a pediatrician or GP.

Read also:

  • St. John's Wort - properties and application
  • Peppermint - application and action
  • Pine syrup - properties and application

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