How to use Mullein
Mullein is a velvety soft, very large plant that grows almost everywhere...in pastures, scrub lands, along railroad tracks etc. It is known by many names such as velvet plant, flannel plant, Juniper's Dock, and more.
Mullein is known for its ability to soothe coughs and relieve chest congestion. It works well in bronchitis-usually presenting harsh painful cough and the inability to expectorate the mucus. When mullein tea is used, most people find it extremely soothing, though not particularly tasty. It works as an expectorant, helping to liquefy the mucus, making it easier to cough it out. It also reduces the inflammation in the airway---reducing the irritation and the pain. People using the mullein tea usually recover faster than those who don't.
Infusing mullein in olive oil has been used for many years in the treatment of ear aches in children and adults alike. It soothes the pain and inflammation of ear infections. Do not use in the case of a ruptured or perforated ear drum. Signs of this are liquid-drainage coming from the ear. It may be clear, yellow, or even blood tinged. You may see this on your child's pillowcase. If this happens, see your physician as antibiotics may be needed.
To infuse mullein at home, use only dried herbs as fresh can harbor bacteria. Fill a sterilized jar with dried mullein, pour olive oil over all. Cover. Place in a sunny window and leave for two weeks. Strain, discarding only the herb, saving the oil. When needed, place 2 drops in affected ears.
To make a medicinal tea, take 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried mullein to each cup of boiling water. Allow to steep for ten minutes. Mullein is quite bitter so most people add sugar or honey. Some people find adding lemon helps also. Drink three cups per day.
Fresh mullein leaf has also been used to sooth minor irritations such as scrapes and insect bites. Just crush the leaves, and apply them as a poultice. They feel quite soothing. The early pioneers even put them in their shoes when they were getting blisters.
Mullein is not just a beautiful plant, it is a helpful herb to have in the medicine chest....especially during cold and flu season.
