Mullein

Clinical Notes. Root=warming, drying, urinary tract tonic, musculoskeletal support, facial pain Leaf=sweet, bitter, cooling, slightly moistening, expectorant (mixed), lymphagogue, spasmolytic (mild) Flower=cooling, moistening, demulcent, sedative (mild), anodyne Combine w/ anti-microbial (e.g. garlic oil) for otitis media, best effect if heated gently Best if used in combination for benign prostatic hyperplasia, chronic cystitis and interstitial cystitis TCM=yin tonic, resolves phlegm, circulates lung Qi and clears damp heat

Action and Therapy. Mullein is demulcent, diuretic and sedative. It is also thought to have feeble anodyne properties. A syrup of mullein, prepared with the addition of lemon juice, is a fairly good sedative for irritation of the trachea and bronchi with persistent cough.

Therapy. The most direct use of this agent is in the treatment of simple uncomplicated cases of deafness, or in the early stages of progressive deafness where the cause is not apparent. In these cases, from, two to five drops in the ear, three or four times each day, will stop the progress of the disease, and will cure many simple cases.

Properties and Uses. The leaves of this coarse-looking plant are relaxant, with a trace of tonic property. Their action is quite soothing, and moderately antispasmodic; and an infusion is a deservedly popular remedy in sub-acute dysentery and diarrhea, probably from their action on the lacteals.