Mullein (halaman ng malen in tagalog)

(Great mullein) – (verbascum Thapsus) Part used: Leaf. Properties: Demulcent, expectorant, antispasmodic, astringent, diuretic, vulnerary. What it affects: Lungs, glands and lymph.

Preparation and amount: Infusion: Steep 5-15 min. Take 3 oz. frequently. Tincture: Take 30-60 drops (1/2 – 1 tsp.) frequently. Fluid extract: Take 1/2 – 1 tsp. frequently. Oil: Take 2-3 drops 2-3 times daily. Powder: Take up to 10 #0 capsules (60 grains) frequently.

Purposes: Internally, mullein tea is a good remedy for coughs, bronchitis, bronchial catarrh, and whooping cough. It is commonly used as a nervine and antispasmodic. It can be used for gastro-intestinal catarrh and cramps in the digestive tract. It is useful for hemorrhoids, diarrhea, hemorrhages of the lungs, and shortness of breath. For lungs and coughs, use a tea made of mullein, yerba santa, wild cherry bark, licorice, and comfrey root. It is used in kidney formulas, to soothe inflammations. The leaves are also used to treat lymphatic congestion. It is also for hay fever, swollen glands, diarrhea, asthma, sinus congestion, and tumors.

Externally, mullein oil is one of the best remedies for ear infection. Put 2-3 drops of the warm oil in the ear overnight or 2-3 times daily. It is also used for the lymphatic congestion that results in earaches, as well as toothaches. For external use on inflammations or painful skin conditions, use the tea or a fomentation of the leaves boiled or steeped in vinegar and water. It is also used for diaper rashes and inflamed eyes.

Note: Four different herbs are called “mullein” The primary medicinal one is described here. The others are black mullein (Verbascum nigrum) and two European species: common mullein (Verbascum phlomoides) and orange mullein (Verbascum phlomoides). The last two have medicinal properties similar to great mullein.