DECEMBER HERB OF THE MONTH

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)
Part Used: Leaf & Flower
Effective Forms: Tea, Tincture, Capsules

Mullein is a soothing relaxant for irritable respiratory conditions and is a pectoral demulcent which means it is an anti-irritant herb rich in mucilage that is soothing, lubricating and offers protection to inflamed or irritable mucous surfaces. It promotes healing, helps reduce cough severity, ease expectoration and clear the lungs. Mullein is also a mild sedative and mild antispasmodic.

It may be used for asthma, whooping cough, emphysema, hay fever, pleurisy, bronchitis, tonsillitis, influenza, respiratory and sinus congestion, urinary tract infections, nervous tension and insomnia.

External use for earache (flowers in olive oil), sores, wounds, boils, rheumatic pain and hemorrhoids.

Dosage

Capsules: Leaves – 2-4 capsules, three times a day. Flowers – 1-2 capsules, three times a day.

Tea(Infusion): Pour 1 cup of boiling water onto 1-2 teaspoons of the dried leaves and/or flowers and let infuse for 10-15 minutes. This should be drunk 3 times a day

Tincture: Take 1-4 ml, 3 times a day.

Combinations: Mullein combines well with Horehound, Lobelia and Coltsfoot for bronchitis.

Mullein tincture is available at all of the markets and is an herb included in Healthy Foundations Tea Blend (Immune Support).