Mullein - plant support in respiratory infections

Mullein - what is it?

The mullein is a plant from the figwort family, belonging to perennials, which are distinguished by magnificent flowers. The plant likes dry positions and can grow in rocky or sandy areas. It can reach large dimensions, even above 2 meters. It owes its name to the Slavic goddess of hunting and wild animals.

The wench can be found both in fields, meadows and in home gardens. From the English language, its name is often translated as "golden torch", because the plant is full of yellow flowers that sparkle in the glow of sunlight.

The mullein has been known for its properties since medieval times. In addition, it was formerly considered a magical plant - it was supposed to protect against many misfortunes, among others, lightning strikes, fire and evil. In addition, according to legends, witches used mullein as a wick for candles and used the plant during rituals. Moreover, mullein flowers were used to:

protect love relationships and chase away unwanted admirers,
guard against wild animals and give yourself courage,
to ward off negative emotions,
protect against nightmares.

Nowadays, the mullein flowers are used due to the pro-health properties and richness of active substances. There are three species that are most often used in herbal medicine, namely:

Verbasum thapsus – small-flowered mullein,
Verbasum densiflorum – large-flowered mullein,
Verbascum nigrum - common mullein.

Flowers of mullein - wealth of valuable compounds

Due to its health-promoting properties, the most commonly used part of the plant is its flower, also called the crown. It is in it that can be found many valuable active substances, among others:

saponines,
flavonoids,
carotenoids,
iridoids and their glycosides,
polysaccharides,
tannins.

Mullein - properties

Thanks to the richness of the above-mentioned substances, mullein can have antibacterial, as well as anti-inflammatory, antiviral and analgesic properties.

In addition, the plant can be used as a sedative, as well as as a support for the cardiovascular system - mullein can increase the strength of heart muscle contraction, as well as blood flow through the coronary vessels.

It can be used to relieve symptoms occurring during upper respiratory tract infections, as well as during colds, flu or sinusitis. This is due to the fact that the mullein can have expectorant effects, that is, support the coughing up of residual secretion, and mucolytic effects, which thins it.

In addition, the plant can act diuretic and antispasmodic, and thus can reduce menstrual pain. It can also alleviate digestive problems, especially during diarrhea or intestinal colic.

The mullein flower can also regenerate the epidermis, accelerating the healing of small wounds and abrasions, and can also soothe irritation. Decoction of mullein seeds can also have a positive effect on frostbite and promote the regeneration of cracked skin.

The plant can be used in cosmetics intended for the care of sensitive and irritated skin. In addition, it can also be used as a support for the structure of the hair - the mullein can strengthen the hair, provide the strands with shine and softness, and in addition can have a brightening effect.

Application of mullein

The mullein can be used to prepare, among others.:

decoctions,
syrups,
infusions,
tincture,
compress.

The mullein in the form of oil can be used as an addition to the bath or as an element of daily hair or skin care. Syrup from the plant can work as a support during the infection period, as well as a soothing agent during throat irritation. Similar effects may show infusions or decoctions of mullein.

How to prepare the infusion and syrup of mullein?

The health-promoting properties of the plant can be easily used in everyday life, preparing mixtures rich in valuable active compounds.

Infusion of mullein

To prepare the infusion, which can be used, among others, to relieve coughs or throat irritation, you need water and dry mullein. One tablespoon of dried flowers should be poured 0.5 l of boiling water. Then you need to cover the dish and leave to infuse. After a dozen or so minutes, the infusion should be drained and the liquid with a healthy effect is ready.

Syrup of mullein

Self-prepare the syrup from the mullein can be a bit more difficult, but you will certainly cope and with this task.

To make the product you will need ingredients such as:

a glass of mullein flowers,
a glass of sugar,
1.5 cups of water,
teaspoon of lemon juice.

How to prepare syrup from mullein?

First of all, it is worth to peel the flowers of the plant, clean them and put them in a large pot, and then pour cold water. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and leave in the dish for 24 hours.

After a day, strain the decoction, preferably through gauze or a linen cloth. Dispose of the flowers and add sugar and lemon juice to the remaining liquid. Boil the prepared solution on low heat for at least an hour. Pour the finished syrup into glass bottles or jars.

Contraindications for the use of mullein

The mullein can be considered a safe plant, which should not contribute to the occurrence of undesirable symptoms.

The only contraindication to the use of preparations rich in mullein may be hypersensitivity to any of the active substances used in the product.

Bibliography:

Natalia Goździak

Copywriter - nutritionist. Bachelor's degree in sports dietetics She graduated from the Academy of Physical Education in Poznan, while her master's degree in dietoprophylaxis and dietotherapy - from the University of Physical Education in Poznan. at UP in Poznań. However, she treats the principles of healthy eating primarily as valuable guidelines, rather than strict rules that must be strictly followed. Knowledge in the field of copywriting, on the other hand, she draws from courses and industry literature, but since the best way to learn is to practice. learning is practice, she spends many hours each day playing with words and creating new, unique content. content. Privately, she is passionate about photography and can't imagine life without books.

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