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Mullein Flowers
(Verbascum thapsus) have been traditionally used topically for
their emollient and itch-relieving treatment of skin conditions such as
insect bites, chaps, cracks, etc. The flowers contain a mucilage
consisting of polysaccharides that are comprised of arabinose, galactose,
and uronic acids. This mucilage provides the soothing, demulcent
properties. Mullein flowers also contain flavonoids such as hesperidin
and verbascoside, iridoids and iridoid glycosides such as aucubin, as
well as lignan glycosides, phenylpropanoic glycoside esters, and
saponins. The flower’s saponins provide the expectorant action for which
this plant is renowned. Mullein has been used throughout Europe in many
tea formulas for colds and coughs as well as in throat lozenges. Mullein
leaves are also used. Mullein flowers have been traditionally used for
treating ear infections and are
purported to have powerful pain-relieving properties. They have also
been used for swollen glands, inflammation and trauma. The oil is heated
to a luke-warm temperature. The
heated oil should not be hot enough to burn the skin and
can be tested by applying a few drops to
the wrist before topical
application. For ear complaints, apply one full eyedropper of oil into
each ear. If there is no improvement, get
proper medical attention. |
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