

Mullein: The Lesser Known Supplement

Get The Scoop On Mullein And How It Can Help You

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As part of the figwort family, the mullein flower is a common plant in places like Europe and Asia, but they are found in greater numbers in the Mediterranean region. In recent years, however, various types of the mullein flower have been introduced in places like North America and Australia, expanding its popularity and exposure to more people. As with many plants grown naturally, mullein has a wide range of medicinal and beneficial properties for promoting a healthy lifestyle. It has also been used in cosmetic products over the centuries to give a rosy appearance to the cheeks. The following are some questions that you might have concerning mullein and its many uses as a natural supplement.

What is the history of the mullein flower?
The mullein flower has been around for centuries in different cultures. In Mexico, It has been used for hundreds of years by some of the indigenous cultures before the conquistadors invaded. It is still used in the region and sold at small herb stores as an effective way to treat hemorrhoids and throat ailments as well. Native Americans also used the plant for many reasons. The mullein leaf was mixed with other leaves and smoked like a cigarette to relieve the symptoms of asthma.

During the late 18th and throughout the 19th centuries, mullein was also believed to have power over evil spirits and witches. The leaves of the plant were also helpful during the Gold Rush in California because miners could burn the leaves and they would act like torches as they walked through the mines.
It was also used in Jewish medical procedures during medieval times. The long stalk of the mullein plant can even be traced all the back to ancient Rome when they were often used as torches in ceremonial practices.

What are some common modern-day uses for mullein?
The two main health benefits of mullein are to relieve the symptoms of bronchitis and coughing. It works as an expectorant and serves to break up chest congestion or head congestion. As such, it is also good for relieving sinus congestion, too. Typically, it is used for respiratory ailments and that is the most common use for it. It has been used by itself and in combination with other products to treat symptoms of sicknesses like whooping cough, tuberculosis and asthma.

In some instances, people have received relief from other sicknesses by using mullein extract. Cramps, convulsions, water retention and gout have all been rumored to be helped by this mild flower. You can also make it into a paste and rub it on wounds to help prevent infection and soothe the burn and the pain. The plant also has anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to treat ailments such as arthritis and inflamed joints.

Are there any known side effects for using common mullein?
Currently, there have been no reported serious side effects after using this natural herb. In some cases, though, the plant in its natural state has been known to cause skin rashes or other minor reactions to people who are sensitive to plants.
If you are pregnant or nursing, however, you should check with your physician before ingesting any natural herb or supplement.

Also, be careful about the specific species of mullein that you are using. Some species can be considered toxic and some even have narcotic properties. In fact, some fishermen use these seeds to make fish drunk so they are easier to catch. Be sure to only purchase your mullein extract supplements from respected stores and companies to ensure that you don’t end up with one of these rogue plants.

Also, if you are on prescription medication, be sure to check with your doctor before starting any natural herbs, including mullein. Even though they are natural, some of them might have adverse reactions with certain medications. In past instances, it has been known to limit the effectiveness of drugs that fight diabetes. On the other hand, it intensifies the effect that muscle relaxers have on the body. If you are taking any form of diuretic, you should be sure to check with you doctor. Mullein can also have the effects of a diuretic and you might end up losing potassium out of your body if you combine the two substances.

What form is mullein available in?
Common mullein is available in a variety of forms and you can pick the one that is more convenient for you. At your local natural herbs and supplement store, you can find mullein in a capsule or tablet form. You can also buy a large bottle of it for your convenience.
If you prefer, you might be able to find a mullein flower plant at your local nursery or gardening store. Simply take the small plant home and either plant it outside in your herb garden or grow it inside in the pot. Either way, it will spread and grow tall and full if you take proper care of it.

How can I make mullein tea at home?
Mullein tea is a great way to introduce the herb into your daily diet because it tastes great and it’s easy to make. First of all, boil a pot of water until it reaches a rapid boil. Once that occurs, remove it from the heat and add some finely shredded mullein leaves to the water. Let the mixture set for approximately 20 minutes so the active ingredients can be absorbed by the hot water. Strain the leaves out of the mixture and enjoy. If you’d like, you can add natural honey or a squirt of lemon to the mix to create the ideal taste.

If mullein is so popular, why haven’t I ever heard of it?
In the natural supplement world, mullein extract is one of the more popular supplements. However, many people have probably not heard of this substance for a variety of reasons. One reason is that it is not one of the more common herbs used to treat certain ailments. While it is beneficial, other herbs like ginseng and Echinacea are being discussed all the time on television and in advertisements. As a result, not many people are exposed to the common mullein flower.
Some other names for mullein include golden rod, Adam’s Rod, Adam’s Flannel and Torch Weed.

Even though you may have never heard of common mullein, it is still one of the more popular supplements on the market. It has enjoyed a long history and survived controversy, as it was believed to protect against evil spirits and the occult. It has numerous medicinal benefits for respiratory ailments and since it is a mild supplement, very few side effects. If you haven’t tried the benefits that the mullein flower plant has in store for you, pick up some capsules at your local herbal supplement store and start reaping the benefits today.

Always Consult Your Physician First

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