Mullein
Mullein is a striking herb that looks good in a flower garden. The leaves are large, velvety and a soft greenish/grey colour, and the 2 metre tall flower spikes are full of bright yellow flowers.
There aren’t many things that goats won’t eat, but they really dislike mullein, so if you want to keep them out of your garden make a mullein hedge. (Goats also dislike hydrangeas, lavender and sage)
Over the centuries the plant has been used for magical, medicinal and practical purposes and has earned itself more than 30 common names. Candlewick, Aaron’s Rod, Hag’s Taper, Flannel Plant, Cowboy’s Toilet Paper, Tinder Plant, Beggar’s Blanket, Indian Tobacco and Quaker’s Rouge are just a few of them.
The long flower spikes were dipped into tallow and burned as tapers, and the dried leaves and stems have been used as tinder. Poor people lined their shoes and stockings with the leaves to keep their feet warm, and used the larger leaves to extend the life of worn soles.
The Romans wrapped soft fruit, such as figs in leaves to prevent bruising, and a leaf in the shoe was reputed to be an excellent contraceptive.
Since Roman times the flowers have been used to brighten blonde hair, and a cream made with the flowers softens the skin.
And, if you want rosy cheeks without the rouge, copy the Quaker ladies and briskly rub a leaf over your skin.
It has also been used for urinary tract infections.
A cold infused oil of mullein flowers is a common remedy for earache, inflamed eyelids, haemorrhoids and eczema.
Mullein leaves are an excellent respiratory aid and combine well with thyme. Try this Thyme & Mullein Cough Syrup
Mullein Verbascum thapsus
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