Mullein has been used as a healing herb for many centuries. It grows all over Europe and North America.   It is primarily used for bronchitis and dry caugh.  It also sooths throat irritation and upset stomach.  It is also an expectorant and a treatment for bladder and urinary irritations.  It is antihistaminic so, taken internally, should help reduce the itching of poison ivy or poison oak and the irritations caused by allergies.  It helps fight cancer, viruses, bacteria and fungus infections. 

Caution: the seeds are toxic and  narcotic and should not be ingested.

Mullein has non-medicinal uses also.  It is an insect repellant.  A yellow die is made from the flowers.  The plant fibers are used in insulation and making wicks.  The dried leaves ignite quickly so can be used to start a campfire.

Folklore

• Some people in Europe believed Mullein had the power to drive off evil spirits.
• Some believed withches used mullein wicks in their candles and lamps for casting spells.
• Ulysses took it with him to protect him from Circe.