HERBS

By Starr West

Mullein

When a new herb arrives in the garden, it’s a good idea to learn about the growing conditions, culinary uses and medicinal properties of that herb. This is true of any new plant but when I received a few Mullein seedlings last week I knew it was time to discover the secrets of this interesting plant.

The herb is propagated by seed in late summer or early spring or by root cutting in late winter. To plant the seeds you should try to emulate its natural environment, which means you toss the seeds into the garden and leave them uncovered and exposed to the sun. There is no need to improve the soil with compost or organic matter because Mullein thrives in wastelands.
The plant has soft downy leaves that form as a rosette. In its second year of life, it produces a tall flower spike with many tiny yellow flowers from the centre of this rosette.
 
Mullein prefers dry sunny conditions and thrives in disturbed ground and along roadsides. The plant is tolerant to about -30oC and grows in all but the coldest climates. Some growers recommend mulch in winter for protection.

Medicinally, Mullein has been used for centuries and is included in folk medicines in almost every culture. The most common uses these days are for ear infections and lung conditions although it’s said to be a worthy antiseptic.

To treat earache, swimmers ear and other ear infections, make an infused oil from the flowers. Take a small bottle and fill it with the tiny yellow flowers. Cover with sweet almond oil or olive oil and leave for about 6 weeks. The oil will keep for 2 years. One drop in the ear is usually enough but you can continue to use a drop or two every hour until the infection is gone. As Mullein has some analgesic properties, it should help with pain.

Interestingly, the cure for lung infections is to use Mullein as an herbal tobacco, though a tea infusion is said to work as well. Mullein will help with persistent coughs by releasing phlegm and assisting the lungs to heal. Herbalists have even had success treating emphysema patients if the treatment starts early enough. 

You can make an effective herbal healing tobacco by mixing one part dried Mullein leaves with one part aromatic herbs. A recommended mix is mint, rosemary, thyme and chamomile. Mix the herbs thoroughly and dry for a day or two. You can even add a little honey and water to the mix before drying to coat the herbs and improve the flavour.