The many uses of mullein

By CONNIE MERTZ

Mullein is considered a waste plant, growing practically anywhere along roadsides, but this is a rare plant. Sometimes referred to as “flannel plant,” it has a very soft, velvety feel. It is said Quaker girls, who were not allowed to wear any face makeup, used this plant. Rubbing the leaves briskly against their faces, their skin took on a rosy hue.

A native of Europe, the stalks were often used as torches when dipped in tallow. Even candlewicks were derived from the thick down of mullein. And the Roman women used its yellow flowers, which appear later in the summer, to dye cloth by just pouring boiling water over the flowers. They also used the dye on their hair.

Both fresh and dried leaves were used to treat bronchial problems and other ailments. The yellow spiked flowers, covered with olive oil, were used to make an ointment and for earaches and bruises.

Most of these uses were practiced in Europe, but society today could benefit from a plant that offers so many medicinal qualities.

Whether all these remedies worked, I cannot say with certainty, but I do like the fuzzy feel and oftentimes, I stop to pick a leaf just to enjoy its softness.