Mullein--also known as Aaron's rod, candlewick, feltwort, lady's foxglove, lungwort, shepherd's club, torch and velvet dock--is a supportive remedy for all types of respiratory ailments (asthma, bronchitis, coughs, colds, hay fever, sore throats). Helps bring up that sticky phlegm. Native Americans inhaled smoked Mullein leaves to ease congestion.

German studies have revealed that Mullein contains mucilage, a substance that swells and soothes respiratory irritations as it absorbs water.

A helpful auxiliary treatment for emphysema. Herbal pharmacologist Daniel Mowrey, Ph.D., author of The Scientific Validation of Herbal Medicine and Herbal Tonic Therapies, praises Mullein for its ability to treat respiratory conditions, including emphysema, colds, flu and bronchitis. Make a tea with 1 or 2 teaspoons per cup of boiling water. Also recommends Red Pepper (Cayenne) and Licorice.

In addition to its expectorant action, it soothes the throat, has bactericidal activity and helps stop the muscle spasms that trigger coughs. A tea steeped for 10 minutes helps relieve symptoms of laryngitis.

Coughs, colds, flu and sore throats are all relieved by remedies that contain Mullein.

Also useful in the treatment of diarrhea, hemorrhoids and swollen glands.

Successfully treats a wide variety of childhood ailments, including tonsillitis, chickenpox, measles and mumps--especially when used in conjunction with Catnip. Both herbs also work well for pancreatitis. Add a small handful (total) of the dried herb to 1 quart (~liter) of boiling water, steep covered for 35 minutes. Strain thoroughly. While still warm add two tablespoons dark honey, one teaspoon pure maple syrup and add couple drops of pure Vanilla to improve flavor considerably. Give sick child one-half cup, warm, throughout the day or every 3-4 hours. No dairy products, eggs, bread, meat, greasy foods, candy, soft drinks, etc. should be given during the recuperation period.

• Recommended Dosage

Read More About It

• Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine: Mullein [HTML] by Clare Hanrahan.

• Identifying and Harvesting Edible and Medicinal Plants (And Not So Wild Places) by Steve Brill.

• The Natural History of Medicinal Plants by Judith Sumner.