Herb of the Season – Mullein

I would like to introduce you to Mullein, a plant that supports the respiratory system, and to lay a little foundation let’s look at the energetic connections, as we know nothing works in isolation.

Any unresolved grief and sadness often sits within our respiratory system, held within our physical body. This could be from years ago and even previous generations. The respiratory system is also our system of expression, how we breathe, how we talk, how we express ourselves in all ways. Very importantly how we breathe.
So when you start using plants for the respiratory system they will work on many levels. They will start to heal the unexpressed trauma held within and begin to help us open up the previously restricted channels of expression.
Mullein heals by creating mental space, opening up previously closed minds, hearts, and voices.

Actions of this herb include:

An expectorant, demulcent, diuretic, mild sedative, vulnerary, astringent, emollient, antiseptic, homeostasis, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, nervine, cancer preventative, and antibacterial.
The leaves of this herb can be used for:
Lung and bronchial issues, spasmodic coughs, emphysema, sore throat, tuberculosis, nervousness, insomnia, cramps, convulsions, also as a gargle to ease toothache. Leaves can be used as a poultice for sprains, and swollen glands, and also as a wash for wounds and skin conditions used externally.
The flowers can be used for:
Ear infections, asthma, earaches, laryngitis, lymphatic congestion, and urinary tract infections.

With so many uses how can you not fall in love with Mullein.
I have managed to grow a lovely mullein plant and have already dried some leaves and made tea with it. See photo above straight from my garden. Today I took two large leaves and put them onto the soles of my feet, held in place with some socks. I left them there for a few hours and my feet feel amazing!
Having this up close and personal relationship with Mullein as it happily grows in my garden is very fulfilling, and helps me learn more deeply as I feel and connect with the energy of it.
Mullein is a biannual so I am looking forward to flowers forming in the next few months so I can harvest flowers to make some mullein oil. Plus of course, harvest some seed to grow more plants! Please note that the seeds cannot be consumed as they are toxic.

I’d love to hear if you have anything to share about Mullein. I strongly feel it is important to strengthen our relationship with herbs and use them in our everyday lives as a preventative to support our wellbeing.

I stock this herb in the form of tea which is great for not only prevention but also assisting with recovery from colds and flu. A great tea to have on hand.

Please note that none of this information is in any way prescriptive and always follow the advice of your health care professional.

Ref:
The Art & Practice of Spiritual Herbalism by Karen M Rose
How can I use Herbs in my daily life? by Isabell Shipard