Common mullein (Verbascum thapsus L.). Use mullein in treatment, forget about sores. Mullein plant helps with women's diseases

The tall stem of mullein with bright yellow flowers stands out appearance among meadow vegetation. This is one of the largest species of steppe and forest-steppe herbs of the temperate zone of Eurasia. For its impressive size and the fiery color of the flowers, the plant received many descriptive names among the people: royal candle, royal scepter, bear's ear, common mullein. In botany, the Latin taxon is used - verbascum.

Description

In nature, mullein grass is considered a weed. Unpretentiousness and adaptability have led to the widespread distribution of the plant on the Eurasian, African and North American continents. Mullein feels good on poor sandy soils, so it is confined to forest edges, wastelands, and roadsides.

Attractive appearance served as a reason for the development of ornamental plant varieties. They are used in landscape design for landscaping areas. In total, more than 250 varieties of mullein are known.

The grass has a long tap root that penetrates deep into the soil. The straight stem extends to a height of up to 3 m. Near the soil surface there is a rosette of leaves attached to the shoot on long petioles. Along the rest of the stem, the leaves are arranged in a spiral or opposite each other.

The leaf blades are characterized by a heart-shaped or oval shape. A distinctive feature of mullein is the felt pubescence. vegetative organs plants. The leaves and stem are grayish-green or dark green in color.

The upper part of the shoot ends in an inflorescence. It appears in perennial forms in the 2nd year of life. In the inflorescence, the upper and lower tiers are clearly distinguished. From 4 to 7 large flowers grow below, and from 1 to 4 small corollas at the top. A kind of cone or scepter of flowers is formed.

The plant blooms throughout the summer. After pollination, a fruit-box is formed in place of the flower. The outside is covered with thick short hairs, and the inner part is occupied by yellow-brown seeds.

Collection and storage rules

Bear's ear grass is usually harvested during flowering. All parts of the plant have healing properties and can be useful for traditional medicine. Mullein is collected in the morning only in dry, clear weather. We must wait for the plant to dry completely after the night dew. In rainy weather, damp shoots and leaves should not be torn.

It should be remembered that the flowers bloom for only one day. It is at this time that they are plucked, without waiting for them to wither. However large number buds on one stem allows for collection over a long period of time.

Selected corollas, leaves, fruits and stems are dried under a canopy or in special dryers at a temperature of +50 C. The plant should not be left in direct sunlight. From their influence, mullein flowers fade and lose healing properties.

Harvested dry raw materials are stored for no more than 2 years. To save flowers I use glass or tin containers with hermetically sealed lids. Leaves and stems are packed in paper bags or wooden boxes.

When harvesting, you must remember that the ratio of dry and fresh flowers is approximately 1:8. That is, from 8 kg of fresh plant, 1 kg of dry harvest is obtained.

Chemical composition and properties

The chemical composition of the mullein plant is rich useful substances. Among them are:

• mucus;
• saponins;
• glucose;
• alkaloids;
• tannins;
• iridoids;
• coumarins;
• essential oils;
• carotene;
• gum.

One of the most important components is vitamin C. It has a stimulating effect on the central nervous system, promotes blood formation processes. Ash has disinfectant and antiseptic properties. It also prevents the formation of blood clots and speeds up the healing of wounds.

The presence of mullein and saponins in the grass helps remove phlegm and mucus from respiratory diseases. In addition, saponins prevent the development of tumors at the DNA level.

Preparations based on bear ear have medicinal properties:

• enveloping;
• pain reliever;
• anticonvulsant;
• expectorant;
• emollient;
• antiseptic.

Application

Common mullein, the medicinal properties and contraindications of which are described, successfully copes with many diseases

People use mullein as a diuretic. Rubbing fresh juice removed warts from the skin. Powder from the roots has long been known for its anthelmintic properties. To treat scrofula and rickets, patients are recommended to take baths with the addition of infusion or plant extract. Washing with a decoction of the leaves relieves inflammation of the eyes, and applying compresses helps get rid of lichen and hemorrhoids. Powder powder promotes rapid healing of wounds and cracks on the limbs and body.

Freshly picked flower Mullein helps to avoid bruising. To do this, it is enough to apply it briefly to the site of the bruise, the pain quickly subsides, and the bruise disappears in 2-3 hours. An infusion of flowers is effectively used to solve dermatological problems, baldness and psoriasis.

Herbal medicine recipes

The infusion helps cope with diseases of the upper respiratory tract, tuberculosis, pneumonia, bronchial asthma, whooping cough, epilepsy, jaundice, convulsions, and migraines. Added to drinking water medicinal baths from hemorrhoids.

1 dessert spoon of dry collection

Dry raw materials are brewed with boiling water and infused for 10 minutes. The finished liquid is filtered. Dosage 150 ml after meals 3 times a day.

The tincture has beneficial effect for diseases of the stomach and spleen, as well as pathologies of the upper respiratory tract. As an external remedy it is used for rubbing for arthritis, neuralgia, radiculitis, rheumatism.

10 tbsp vodka

1 tbsp dried flowers

Mullein flowers are poured with alcohol and infused for 3 days.

Dental, cardiovascular, stomach diseases can be cured by a decoction of common mullein. It is also used to make lotions for dermatological diseases.

1 tbsp dry leaves

The dry collection is filled with liquid and boiled for 2 minutes. Then it settles for 30 minutes and is carefully filtered. Drink 1 tablespoon of decoction 3 times daily.

Mullein oil received the name “royal”. It has excellent antiseptic and analgesic properties. It is recommended for healing wounds and eczema, eliminating ear pain.

100 ml olive oil

3 tbsp. l flowers

The flowers are laid out in a transparent bowl and filled with oil. The mixture is infused for 1 month, in a warm, well-lit place. The vessel is shaken daily to prevent sediment from accumulating. The finished oil is filtered and stored in the refrigerator.

The ointment is applied to disinfect wounds and ulcers and prevent rotting.

The grass seeds are ground into powder and then mixed thoroughly with butter in a ratio of 6:12.

Contraindications

There are no clear contraindications for common mullein. Pregnant and lactating women and young children should refrain from using herbal medicines based on it. When taking medications, it is necessary to take into account individual intolerance to individual components in the chemical composition of the herb. Appearance discomfort or allergic reactions may also serve as a basis for contraindication to the use of the plant.

However, care must be taken when using individual parts of mullein. Liquid medications must be filtered to prevent lint from entering the esophagus and stomach. Fine, coarse hairs upon contact with the mucous membrane will cause irritation.

Bear ear seeds contain toxic substances and are therefore dangerous to eat. Tannin, which is part of the herb, has a carcinogenic property. In this regard, there is a severe contraindication for the inclusion of herbal remedies based on mullein in the treatment course of cancer patients.

From time immemorial, scepter-shaped mullein has been used in medical practice. Since ancient times, folk healers have used this plant with an interesting name for therapy. various diseases. The scope of use of mullein is almost limitless, given that doctors resort to the help of not only the scepter-shaped plant, but also others: shaggy, Djungarian, cockroach, magnificent.

How to recognize mullein in the wild: a brief description

All varieties of this grass belong to the Norichinaceae family. Scepter-shaped mullein is a wild plant that has other unofficial names (bear's ear, Mary's candle, royal scepter). The height of the grass can reach two meters. Mullein germinates mainly in sandy soil. Most often found on forest slopes, bathed in sun during most of the daylight hours.

If you look closely at the photo of the scepter-shaped mullein, it is easy to notice that it blooms with yellow one-day flowers.

They are collected in inflorescences and resemble spikelets. During the flowering period, which falls in early June - early September, traditional healers try to collect the maximum number of flowers. However, nevertheless valuable for use in medicinal purposes Other parts of the plant (foliage, root, trunk) are also considered. They are used in folk medicine. In official pharmacology for production medicines Only flower corollas are used.

Why is this herb used medicinally?

It is not difficult to argue for the need to include mullein in the process of making medicines. The chemical composition of herbal fibers contains many valuable and beneficial substances for the human body:

• Sahara;
• flavonoids;
• gum;
• saponin;
• carotene;
• ascorbic acid;
• coumarin;
• essential oils.

In addition, mullein fibers contain a lot of mucus and mineral salts. This complex chemicals participates in most natural physical and biological processes of the human body.

It has been proven that mullein has a number of healing properties, affecting various organs and systems. The plant has the following types of medicinal effects:

• hemostatic;
• antispasmodic;
• astringent;
• expectorant;
• anti-inflammatory;
• anticonvulsant;
• painkillers;
• diuretic;
• antiseptic;
• sedative.

The beneficial effects of mullein decoction on the body

Internal use of mullein in the form of a tincture or decoction can give a strong diuretic effect. Use this plant and for infectious diseases of fungal origin, since its components adversely affect the microbial microflora. The version about the vasoconstrictor properties of mullein has not yet been fully confirmed by researchers. However, this does not in any way prevent the plant from being used to treat peptic ulcers. gastrointestinal tract. Mullein has an enveloping effect on the mucous membrane of the organ and has a wound-healing effect. Of course, it is hardly possible to heal an ulcer using herbal composition alone, but in combination with conservative methods traditional treatment recovery dynamics can be accelerated.

Use of the plant for colds

The medicinal properties and contraindications of mullein often become the subject of discussion in narrow circles of homeopaths and representatives of official medicine. Some are sure that this herb is absolutely safe and can be used at any age. Others insist on the presence of toxic elements in the stamen and calyxes of the plant.

The only thing that no one doubts today is the content of flavonoids in grass fibers. These microelements are used to treat diseases of the respiratory tract, oral cavity, esophagus, and nasal mucosa. For dry coughs, flavonoids are indispensable - they help thin out mucus and promote its rapid removal from the body. In turn, due to the liquefaction and discharge of sputum, it is possible to relieve swelling of the throat and eliminate painful spasms in the bronchi.

In most cases, mullein is used for colds accompanied by:

• runny nose;
• cough;
• hoarseness of the vocal cords;
• laryngitis;
• pleurisy.

The essential oils contained in mullein have a beneficial effect on the tissues and mucous membranes of the respiratory organs, improving the removal of mucus and relieving inflammation. Decoctions are used for tuberculosis and emphysema, whooping cough and shortness of breath caused by an allergic reaction, and bronchial asthma. Exacerbation of chronic sinusitis is an indication for the use of the herb: with its help, the sinuses and nasal passages are washed several times a day. To gargle for laryngitis, sore throat and pharyngitis, use a tincture of flowers and leaves of mullein scepter. The plant eliminates sore throat, sore throat, and swelling.

Treatment of blood vessels with bear's ear grass

Traditional healers are confident that scepter-shaped mullein can be used for treatment hypertension, atherosclerosis. Allegedly, the herb helps to dilate blood vessels, making their walls more elastic and stronger.

There is no official confirmation of this property of mullein yet, but followers of this version are confident that it will reduce blood pressure You can use the tops of the plant brewed in boiling water. The course of treatment for hypertension and atherosclerosis is 30 days. For prevention, the decoction is taken every 3 months for two weeks.

Mullein for women's health

For many years, women have resorted to using a bear's ear during menopause. Mullein decoctions help reduce the intensity and frequency of hot flashes. In addition, during menopause, the calming properties of the plant eliminate irritability and help normalize sleep. To do this, honey is added to the mullein flower decoction.

Treatment of skin diseases

In fact, it is impossible to list all the diseases in the treatment of which scepter mullein can be used. For example, in France the plant became most widespread in the treatment of chronic skin diseases. A decoction of mullein is drunk and used externally in the form of compresses and lotions for psoriasis, dermatitis, and eczema. To prepare such a drug you will need 1 tbsp. l. dried flowers and a glass of water. The raw materials are poured with water and sent to the fire, bringing to a boil, after which the contents are infused for an hour. Before use, the product must be strained. Take 3 tbsp infusion. l. morning, afternoon and evening after meals.

If you systematically use the tincture as a compress, it can be used to cure fungus, lichen, mycoses, candidiasis of the skin and mucous membranes. Mullein also has cosmetic properties: one regularly rinses the head with its decoction, which helps get rid of seborrhea and dandruff.

External use medicinal herb will benefit patients with purulent wounds, ulcerations, boils. Mullein is an excellent alternative to the simplest pharmaceutical antiseptics for any other skin problems:

• bedsores;
• burns;
• bruises;
• abrasions.

Mullein ointment for cracked nipples

Nursing mothers use the plant to treat nipples that are cracked at the beginning of lactation. I just use it in the form of an ointment, which can be made according to the following recipe:

1. Grind fresh mullein flowers to a powdery state.
2. Add pork fat to the resulting mass.
3. For the correct proportion of plant materials, take half as much.
4. Heat everything together in a steam bath, strain, then send the mixture to harden in the refrigerator.
5. Lubricate small wounds several times throughout the day, and store the ointment itself at temperatures up to +6 degrees for no more than six months.

Gastrointestinal disorders and the use of mullein

Scepter-shaped mullein is also considered an effective adjuvant for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. For dyspepsia caused by infection (dysentery, enterocolitis, enterobiasis) or functional disorders, the plant tincture is also taken orally. Mullein is especially useful for diarrhea (it has a binding effect). Using the tincture, wash the eyes for conjunctivitis, wipe diathesis rashes on the cheeks of babies. Due to the diuretic properties of the plant, its use in the treatment of kidney and bladder diseases is considered very effective. Its microelements help relieve swelling and pain, and eliminate pain when urinating.

The medicinal properties of scepter-shaped mullein, according to traditional healers, increase if the plant is infused or brewed with milk. Alcohol tinctures from this plant serve as local chondroprotectors, warming joints, relieving pain in arthritis and arthrosis. To combat external hemorrhoids, it is also recommended to make mullein lotions, which relieve inflammation and help reduce knots.

How to properly collect and store medicinal raw materials?

Taking advantage of the healing properties of mullein on your own is not as difficult as it might seem. Of course, its preparation is associated with certain difficulties, but the final result in the form of universal medicinal raw materials compensates for any costs. Knowledge about the rules for collecting the plant and drying it will allow you to preserve the maximum of valuable microelements and properties. So, what matters when harvesting scepter-shaped mullein:

1. It is necessary to collect flowers carefully and carefully, as they quickly lose their natural color.
2. Raw materials that have acquired a gray-brown tint during the drying process are unsuitable for further use.
3. The optimal period for collecting mullein is June-July. It is advisable to harvest flowers in the first half of the day, after the dew has dried.
4. It is advisable to dry it on paper or moisture-absorbing fabric, protecting the raw material from the sun and wind, but providing it with high-quality air circulation.
5. Dry flowers are stored in a tightly closed jar - mullein is very hygroscopic, therefore it is able to absorb moisture from the air.

Are there any contraindications for mullein?

Despite the fact that the herb itself is not dangerous, there are still some precautions for its use. In particular, before preparing medicines from mullein, it is important to remove all parts of the plant: stamens, petals, leaves, villi, etc.

Before drinking, it is necessary to strain the drink - this will prevent the accumulation of toxic substances and irritation of the mucous membranes. internal organs. Store mullein products prepared according to folk recipes, should stay away from food. Pregnant women should also take Mullein scepter flower with caution. A contraindication to its use is individual intolerance.

Mullein has been known since ancient times as medicinal plant, used in folk and traditional medicine. It is also known as verbascum or royal scepter.

The plant was first mentioned in the medical works of the ancient Greek scientist and physician Hippocrates; later the medicinal properties of mullein were studied by Avicenna and Simon Sirensky. Ancient healers used the plant to combat many ailments, such as toothache, tumors, coughs, colds, conjunctivitis and whooping cough.

The plant belongs to the Norichnikov family, which has more than 100 species. Verbascum is widespread throughout Asia and Europe, but feels best in the mild maritime climate of the Black and Mediterranean seas. This is a biennial herbaceous plant, less often perennial or annual, up to 3 m high and higher.

Wide, hairy leaves are attached to a strong rod-shaped stem. Mullein in appearance resembles a spruce, that is, the structure of the plant is pyramidal, with a brush-shaped inflorescence on the top of the head. Blooms from May to August. The flowers are yellow, orange, purple, blue, red and white.

Many types of verbascum are also common in temperate climates in Europe. The plant prefers to settle on rocky or sandy slopes of mountains and hills, next to the road, in the steppes or in dry meadows. Finding it is quite simple, since mullein is unpretentious to conditions and climate changes. In our country you can find the following types of mullein:

• Scepter-shaped;
• Black;
• Paniculate;
• Olympic;
• Violet;
• Drug;
• Bear ear.

They all have similar chemical composition and beneficial properties.

Medicinal properties

First of all, you should pay attention to the rich chemical composition plants, which include:

The composition determines many medicinal properties of the plant:

• diaphoretic;
• wound healing;
• diuretic;
• astringent;
• painkiller;
• soothing;
• anti-inflammatory;
• bactericidal;
• hypotensive (lowers blood pressure);
• anticonvulsant;
• expectorant;
• antitumor;
• immunomodulating;
• choleretic.

Indications for use

Medicines based on mullein are indicated for the following diseases:

• hypertension;
• angina;
• whooping cough;
• cold;
• bronchitis;
• tuberculosis;
• convulsions;
• gastrointestinal diseases;
• asthma;
• headaches.

The plant strengthens the immune system well, which is a means of preventing any infectious diseases. In addition, it is used to disinfect and accelerate wound healing. It is especially worth highlighting the expectorant abilities of mullein, which helps with any type of cough. It is also noted that this plant has antioxidant properties, that is, it prevents the formation malignant tumors and helps in the treatment of oncology in the early stages.

Harm and contraindications

At the moment, there are no known contraindications or possible harm from consuming the plant. It is allowed for use even by pregnant and nursing mothers, as well as young children. The only thing that may occur is an allergic reaction to one of the components in the composition in individual cases. You should also follow the recommended dosage and courses of treatment with verbascum-based drugs.

Important! The leaves, stem and flowers of the plant are absolutely harmless, but the seeds contain many toxic substances, so their use inside is strictly prohibited!

Dosage forms

All parts of the plant are used in the manufacture of medicines: stem, leaves, flowers and roots. The following dosage forms are prepared from them:

• infusion;
• decoction;
• alcohol tincture;
• oil;
• ointment;
• pills.

Pharmacies usually sell the dried plant, sometimes tablets, so you will have to prepare the medicine yourself at home.

Instructions for use

Let's look at the basic recipes and methods for preparing mullein-based medicines:

Interesting! In the US, mullein is called "cowboy toilet paper" due to the abrasive effect of the plant's fuzzy leaves.

Mullein is a very useful medicinal plant against many ailments. The main thing is to follow the dosage and course of treatment. Verbascum will relieve colds, stop bleeding, cure infections and improve digestion. This good remedy strengthening the immune system and preventing malignant tumors.

Doctor of Agricultural Sciences, Professor of the department. Vegetable Growing RGAU-Moscow Agricultural Academy named after K.A. Timiryazev

Genus Mullein (Verbascum) belongs to a fairly numerous and interesting from the point of view medicinal use to the Norichnikov family (Scrophulariaceae). This family includes such famous medicinal plants, like foxgloves. The genus Mullein has about 300 species native to Eurasia, with the center of species diversity in the Mediterranean.

Mullein can be one-, two-, or perennial herbaceous plants. The leaves are usually simple and collected in basal rosettes. The flowers are more or less densely arranged on a spike-shaped inflorescence. The color of the five-membered corolla is most often yellow, but it can also be white and even red. The boxes contain a huge number of seeds, which, scattering, spread throughout the area.

Since ancient times, mullein has been considered not only medicinal, but also magical plant. The relationship between the sceptered mullein and witches throughout history has been controversial. According to the beliefs of some peoples, witches used it in their witchcraft cuisine; according to others, it drives away evil spirits and wards off curses. In the Middle Ages, a stem of mullein, dipped in resin, was used as a long-burning torch for lighting; the German name Koenigskerze is translated as “royal candle.” In addition, mullein was used to dye fabrics. The flowers produced bright yellow or green dyes, and were sometimes even used for hair dyeing.

In herbal medicine, flowers, and sometimes the entire plant, were used for colds to thin mucus and as an enveloping agent. But these ancient treatises often dealt with various types mullein When reading phytotherapeutic literature, there is often confusion and it is not always clear which species the author is writing about. Indeed, some types are very similar at first glance, especially those used in medicine.

In our country, the literature on herbal medicine most often mentions mullein densely flowered ( Verbascum densiflorum Bertol.; syn. V.thapsiforme Schrad.). This is a biennial herbaceous plant, that is, it blooms only once in its life, in the second year. And in the first year of life it forms a rosette of highly pubescent simple leaves. They seem to hug the stem, so rainwater and dew flow to the root of the plant. The height of the plant in flowering condition depends more on the conditions and ranges from 50 to 200 cm (but sometimes up to 3 m). As a means of protecting it from drought, highly branched trichomes on the leaves serve, which make the plant fluffy, or rather even shaggy. For this reason, it and other types of mullein are sometimes called “bear’s ear.”

Flowers on inflorescences bloom gradually, from bottom to top, over 1.5-2 months. The corollas contain flavonoids, which give them their bright yellow color. Flowers are characterized by protogeny, that is, first the pistil is ready for fertilization, and only then the anthers open. Therefore, it often happens that pollen from the lower flowers is transferred by Hymenoptera insects to the upper ones.

The fruits are capsules with 300 or more tiny seeds. With 200 flowers, the plant produces approximately 60,000 seeds, which are dispersed by wind and animals.

There are varieties specifically for obtaining medicinal raw materials, for example, the old Czech variety “Zlata” and the tetraploid variety “Polyverb”, which are also grown as ornamental plants.

Mullein officinalis, or shaggy (Verbascum phlomoides) common in Western Europe and in the European part of Russia, as well as in Siberia. It grows on slopes and roadsides, as well as in wastelands, in mountainous areas it rises to 800 m. It prefers clayey soils, moderately moist to moderately dry, rich in basic nutrients.

It differs from the previous species in its smaller height (50-150 cm) and non-branching peduncles. As a result of long selection, the “Napfeny” variety was developed in Hungary.

Common mullein, or bear ear (Verbascum thapsus) is also a heavily pubescent biennial plant, reaching a height of 2 meters or more. He is known by many names. In the 19th century, there were more than 40 different names in use on just one English, for example the most bizarre "Adam's Rod", "Hare's Beard" and "Ice Leaf". Common names include countless references to the hairiness of the species: "Unclear", "Velvet" and "Flannel" (Feltwort).

European reference books call it the "Big Mullein". In North America, the name "Common Mullein" is used, while Westerners in the United States commonly refer to mullein as "Cowboy Toilet Paper." Translated from German language it is called small-flowered mullein, which means that, unlike previous species, it has smaller flowers.

It can grow in very different environmental conditions, but prefers well-lit areas with disturbed soil. Seeds can survive in the soil for a long time and germinate as soon as they are exposed to light. Despite its fertility, like other mulleins, it cannot be considered an invasive weed. Although in some countries it is considered an undesirable grassland plant (the species is legally listed as a noxious weed in the US state of Colorado (Class C) and in Hawaii, in the Australian state of Victoria, where it has successfully naturalized.

It was first systematized by C. Linnaeus in 1753 in Species Plantarum. Strictly speaking, the name "thapsus" was first used by Theophrastus (as "thapsos"), giving this name to a plant that grew near the small Greek settlement of Thapsos, near modern Syracuse in Sicily, although some authors associate the name with the ancient Tunisian city of Thapsus.

Since the plant has a very wide range, quite a lot of different morphological characteristics forms Therefore, the species has many synonyms. So, copies from North America differ in smaller sizes.

Taxonomy of the genus Verbascum has not been subject to any significant revision since Svein Muirbeck, since the 30s of the last century, with the exception of the work of Arthur Huber-Moret, who identified varieties from Iran and Turkey as a separate group. And since no one has yet sought to apply genetic or molecular methods to the study of this genus, botanists are content with the appearance of the plants.

There are usually 3 subspecies of common mullein:

V. thapsus subsp. thapsus, that is, the most typical and widespread.

V. thapsus subsp. c rassifolium(Lam.). Murb. - thick-leaved subspecies, distributed mainly in the Mediterranean and at altitudes up to 2000 meters in southwestern Austria (syn. subsp. montanum(Scrad). Bonnier&Layens), therefore the synonym for the name of this subspecies is mountain. The lower leaves often have relatively long petioles and less pubescent stamens.

And finally, native to Spain V. thapsus subsp. giganteum(Willk). Nyman, the name itself speaks about its size. In addition, he has a very noticeable white coating and strongly drooping leaves and it is characterized by larger flowers (0.5 cm larger in diameter).

Mullein has long been used as a medicine with emollient and astringent properties, especially for coughs and skin problems.

There are many interspecific hybrids of common mullein and other representatives of the genus, which are designated as hybrid species:

• V. x duernsteinense Teyber hybrid V. speciosum;
• V. x godronii Boreau hybrid V. pulverulentum;
• V. x kerneri Fritsch hybrid V. phlomoides;
• V. x lemaitrei Boreau hybrid V. virgatum;
• V. x pterocaulon Franch. a hybrid with a currently rare species in the wild V. blattaria
• V. xthapsi L. hybrid with V. lychnitis syn. V. Spurium W. D. J. Koch,
• V. x semialbum Chaub. hybrid with widespread V. nigrum

Growing on site

The plant prefers well-lit areas with light and well-permeable soil. Sowing can be carried out in 3 periods: early spring, in summer and at the end of August. In all three cases, the plant manages to form a rosette before winter. Only in the latter case will it be small. Mullein seeds are small, so they are sown with minimal incorporation into the soil, preferably up to 1 cm. No pre-sowing preparation is required. For faster emergence of seedlings, crops, especially summer crops in the absence of rain, must be watered. During the first month, seedlings develop slowly and need to be weeded and loosened in a timely manner. Under no circumstances should a crust be allowed to form.

If the seedlings are too dense, they should be thinned out, leaving 15-20 plants per 1 meter of row.

Flowering and seed ripening in mullein is very uneven and prolonged. At the top of the stem the flowers are still blooming, and at the bottom the seeds are already ripening and falling off. There are two ways out: either come to terms with it and pull out the rosettes that appear throughout the area, or cut off the flower stalks that are ending their flowering. You can pull out the entire plant at once. The rosette becomes quite shabby towards the end of flowering.

It is convenient to place mullein near a fence, then it is less exposed to wind pressure or in the background of a mixborder, since in a flowering state it reaches 2 m.

Mullein, thanks bright colors and tall height - up to two meters, attracts admiring glances. Flowers of delicate shades are collected in spike-shaped inflorescences. But it turns out that it is very useful as a medicine. First of all, it is an effective antitussive, and this was already known to residents Ancient Greece, such healing properties and Ayurvedic medicine were used. In a long period civil war in America, the Confederate army drank decoctions from the plant during the rampant respiratory epidemics.

The mullein lives for only two years and belongs to the Norichnikov family. It chooses places on the sand near forest clearings, on slopes and fallow lands, in ravines or forest edges, near river banks.

Harvesting the plant

The healing qualities of mullein can easily be lost if it is collected incorrectly and the drying technology is violated. It should be collected only in dry and clear weather, and after the dew has disappeared. Fallen parts should not be picked up; they have already lost their healing effect. A good harvest is one in which there are no flower cups.

During drying, you need to carefully ensure that the raw material does not acquire a brown tint, but retains its golden color. You can dry it not only under a canopy, but also indoors. The main thing is that it is constantly ventilated. As soon as the procedure is over, it is necessary to hide the entire harvest in a hermetically sealed container.

In medical practice, flower corollas are most often used. Basically, only two types are taken: scepter-shaped and ordinary, or “bear’s ear”. It differs in that its flowers are smaller, approximately 15–25 mm, and grows mainly on black soil. Flowering lasts from July to August.

Traditional medicine also widely uses roots, grass, and leaves. It is possible to harvest from one plant for a whole month or even longer, since mullein blooms for quite a long time - from early June to September. Most often they go for leaves and flowers at the end of the summer season.

All types of mullein benefit people!

Plant varieties bring many benefits to people:

1. Scepter-shaped most of all brings relief to people suffering from hemorrhoids and helps to cure pulmonary diseases. It has diaphoretic, expectorant, and diuretic properties, which is why it is included in various medicines.
2. "Royal Scepter". Of all the varieties, it is the tallest and blooms the longest. It has established itself as a means of quickly relieving pain.
3. “Bear's ear” - this variety of plant perfectly relieves inflammatory processes, dilates blood vessels and relieves cramps.
4. Hybrid is perhaps the most unpretentious. Survives both during periods of severe drought and when hit severe frosts, but loves sunny open areas. It has inflorescences of rich yellow color, which represent a panicle or spike. Its self-seeding is so numerous that it often occupies a large nearby area. It is not used so often, but it has good wound-healing and insecticidal properties.
5. Paniculate. This species can be identified by its serrated leaves. Flowering lasts from June to August. Most often used to lower blood pressure.
6. Densely flowered. It reaches a height of 80 centimeters, has felt pubescence, and the leaves have a very oblong shape. Blooms all summer.
7. Violet. This plant, unlike other species, is perennial, and the flowers are purple. Blooms for a short time: June – early July. It is popular because it stimulates the heart muscle and promotes motor activity intestines.
8. Black. Its root is spindle-shaped, and its height does not exceed a meter. Its flowers are collected in original bunches and emit a faint, pleasant, sweetish aroma that persists even in a dry plant. May bloom throughout the summer. For medicinal purposes, only flowers are used to treat pathologies that occur in the respiratory tract.
9. Olympic. Perennial tall plant - up to two meters. The flowers are small, 3 cm. The leaves are gray in color. Flowering lasts only in July. It is considered an antiulcer agent.

Beneficial substances hidden in the plant

The active components are:

1. Saponin, which gives the plant an expectorant effect.
2. Flavonoids and tannins.
3. Plant mucilages, that is, polysaccharides that absorb water, which provides the plant with softening properties. It is the mucus contained in mullein that protects cell membranes from the invasion of allergens.
4. Methanol extract is intended to exhibit antiviral properties. The substance is especially resistant to type I herpes virus.
5. Gums - these carbohydrates help reduce the irritating effects of certain medications on the body and reduce absorption.
6. Glycosides provide relief cardiovascular system, increase myocardial performance.
7. Aucubin - has a bactericidal effect, helps when the stomach, intestines are infected, bladder or kidneys. On digestive organs acts as a stimulant and anti-inflammatory.
8. Coumarin and vitamin C.
9. Mineral salts, and potassium acetate is especially valuable, which helps fight harmful microorganisms and ensures health of the body's cells.
10. Essential oils are present in small quantities.

What can mullein cure?

First of all, the plant takes an active part in the treatment of bronchitis and bronchial asthma, whooping cough. Helps with upper respiratory tract catarrh and flu, as well as tuberculosis, especially if the diseases are accompanied by a long cough, as it has expectorant properties, thinning mucus and removing phlegm. It is used as a mild diuretic.

Mullein also has other effects on the body, having the following properties:

• antispasmodic;
• anticonvulsants;
• astringents;
• hemostatic;
• vasodilators;
• enveloping;
• antifungal;
• wound healing;
• hypoglycemic;
• calming;
• antiseptic.

Using mullein, they treat diseases of the mucous membrane that appear in the oral cavity, stomach, intestines, and esophagus. The plant reliably protects the mucous membrane from external negative influences, reduces pain and spasms, and relieves swelling of tissues. The plant is effective against influenza viruses.

In gynecology, mullein is also very often used if the genitals are inflamed; during the difficult period of menopause, the plant helps to normalize high blood pressure and avoid atherosclerosis.

Recipes

1. If appeared bronchial asthma If your lungs are sick, use this remedy: 3 tablespoons of herbs are brewed in 0.5 liters of boiling water, and then infused in a thermos. This dose should be divided into three parts and taken throughout the day.
2. The stomach, lungs, and intestines are treated as follows: brew 30–40 grams of flowers in a liter of boiling water and leave. Drink 50 grams every two hours.
3. For the plant to act as sedative, you need to drink a decoction of flowers, adding honey to it.
4. Mullein root is also beneficial as it is a diuretic, helping in the treatment of kidney stones and gout. A decoction is used for these purposes. It is taken for the first time on an empty stomach in the morning, and in the afternoon - between meals (from 120 to 220 grams per day).
5. If diarrhea begins, use a decoction of the fully flowering herb. They drink it 3–4 times a day, 15–20 grams.
6. Most often, mullein is used together with other medicinal herbs. The syrup is popular and can also be given to children. It helps to get rid of severe cough. You will need: mullein flowers and marshmallow root - 7 grams each. and 2 glasses of water. Cook for 20 minutes over low heat, strain and add 200 grams of sugar. After this, keep it on the fire until you get a thick mass. Drink a teaspoon several times a day.
7. The following medicine will help as a diaphoretic: flowers of mullein, black elderberry, mallow - 1 part each; linden flowers and dried raspberries - 2 parts each. Mix all ingredients, measure out a tablespoon and boil in 0.5 liters of water. Drink hot before bed.

In the form of compresses and rubbing, mullein is used:

1. For radiculitis and rheumatism. A tablespoon of flowers is poured with 250 grams of vodka. The mixture will be ready after it has been infused in a dark place for 2 weeks.
2. From ulcers and purulent wounds. Make an ointment using 5 parts of seeds and 10 parts of butter.

Are there any contraindications?

Individual intolerance to any ingredients can have a negative effect on the body. Mullein is not recommended for increased gastric secretion. When treating a bactericidal infection, the temperature may rise, as intoxication occurs with the decay products of microorganisms.

Video: beneficial properties and uses of mullein