HERBAL FORMULAS #2
by Moggy
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is found growing along roadways and in meadows. It is a biennial, producing leaves the first year and fruiting and dying the second year. Easy to raise as once planted it will scatter its seeds and multiply itself. Mullein leaves and flowers are used as analgesic, antihistamine, antioxidant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, diuretic and sedative. In some cases the roots are also used.
American Indians used to relieve lung congestion by smoking dried leaves of the herb Mullein although I wouldn’t recommend doing so due to threat of an allergic reaction. They also used Mullein as a treatment for hemorrhoids and gout.
Mullein is a beneficial remedy for toning mucous membranes and reducing inflammation; in the case of the respiratory system it facilitates expectoration; in the case of hemorrhoids it eases the discomfort. In both situations it reduces inflammation.
There are so many ways to use this healing herb. To clear the lungs from congestion, boil about a cup of the leaves in a quart of water, pour into a bowl and make a tent by leaning over the bowl and covering your head and the bowl with a towel. Take shallow breaths at first and then inhale the steam deeper; do this for five or ten minutes.
For both people and pets you can easily make an herbal oil for earache or for the animal problem of ear mites by soaking about a teaspoon of Mullein leaves in two tablespoons of warm olive oil. When the leaves have absorbed all the oil add a clove of chopped garlic, mix well, and strain through a fine clean cloth. Using a dropper, squeeze a few drops into the ear. It will soothe and heal.
MULLEIN INFUSION
NATURAL REMEDY FOR PULMONARY COMPLAINTS
A remedy for checking distressing cough and expectoration in all pulmonary diseases. Also for hemorrhage of the lungs, stomach, intestines, or any other internal part. It is considered to have more curative value in tuberculosis, coughs, and bronchitis than comfrey,lungwort, pleurisy root, or any other herb used in the treatment of respiratory diseases. Formula by Shook.
1 ounce mullein leaves (cut)
1 ½ pints distilled water
Boil the water and pour over the leaves. Cover and let steep in a hot place for 15 minutes. Strain through muslin to avoid the hairs. Sweeten with honey to taste, or add one ounce of food grade vegetable glycerine. Cool, bottle, and keep in a cool place.
DOSE: Three to four ounces or more 3 or 4 times a day between meals. Children less according to age.
NATURAL REMEDY FOR PULMONARY COMPLAINTS
A remedy for checking distressing cough and expectoration in all pulmonary diseases. Also for hemorrhage of the lungs, stomach, intestines, or any other internal part. It is considered to have more curative value in tuberculosis, coughs, and bronchitis than comfrey,lungwort, pleurisy root, or any other herb used in the treatment of respiratory diseases. Formula by Shook.
1 ounce mullein leaves (cut)
1 ½ pints distilled water
Boil the water and pour over the leaves. Cover and let steep in a hot place for 15 minutes. Strain through muslin to avoid the hairs. Sweeten with honey to taste, or add one ounce of food grade vegetable glycerine. Cool, bottle, and keep in a cool place.
DOSE: Three to four ounces or more 3 or 4 times a day between meals. Children less according to age.
MULLEIN COUGH DROPS...recipe by Karyn Siegel-Maier
½ cup mullein leaves, packed
1 cup boiling water
1 1/3 cup brown sugar
Steep the leaves in the boiled water, covered, for one hour. Strain. Add brown sugar. Boil until the mixture reaches the soft candy stage, then pour onto a greased cookie sheet. With a butter knife, score out squares while the mixture is still soft. Allow to cool completely, then break into individual squares. Wrap each drop in waxed paper.
1 cup boiling water
1 1/3 cup brown sugar
Steep the leaves in the boiled water, covered, for one hour. Strain. Add brown sugar. Boil until the mixture reaches the soft candy stage, then pour onto a greased cookie sheet. With a butter knife, score out squares while the mixture is still soft. Allow to cool completely, then break into individual squares. Wrap each drop in waxed paper.
Do not use this herb if pregnant or breast feeding.
