Mullein is that fuzzy weed that has huge benefits.
Mullein (Verbascum Thapsus) is that weed that you usually see growing on the side of the road. The first thing you notice is the long stock with a few yellow flowers on the top. The stocks can be upwards of five feet tall! The leaves at the base can be almost 12 inches across and have a fuzzy feel and look to them.
Fun fact: One traditional use for mullein is toilet paper!
While mullein flowers infused in oil are best known for ear aches, there are other benefits.
Dried leaves made into tea is great for coughs and colds, and loosens mucus.
Dried leaves infused in oil is good for healing wounds. Make it into a salve and it can reduce joint pain and rheumatism.
Additional Benefits:
- cough
- bronchitis
- earaches
- colds
- chills
- flu
- fever
- hoarseness
- sore throat
- migraines
- joint pain
Now that you know there are benefits to your yard invaders, how can you use them?
How to use Mullein:
Tea: Strain a tablespoon of dried mullein in hot water for coughs and lung care.
Flower infused oil: Earaches
Leaf Infused Oil: Joint Pain and wounds.
Salve: Skin conditions like eczema and sooths joint pain.
Lotion Bars. A handy, portable version of mullein salve and oil.
Where to get Mullein
Your own yard.
Someone else’s property (where you’ve asked permission).
Farmers Market.
Online (yes, people – like me – go out and pick/dig up these weeds from property that has never been sprayed.)
Places where you shouldn’t get mullein:
Never harvest from the side of the road.
Never harvest from someone’s property without their permission.
Never harvest in an area that you know has been sprayed.
Never buy from an untrusted source.
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/mullein-leaf#benefits
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/mullein-benefits/
Disclaimer:
This product has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration to treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If you are pregnant or nursing or taking prescription medication, please consult your healthcare professional.
