Surprise! It’s Mullein

This started growing in the late spring on my patio next to the house.  I did not know what plant this was.  While it may have been a weed, it looked so happy and healthy growing there that I left it alone.  On a recent visit to my local herb store, I showed an employee the picture on my phone of this unknown plant.  She promptly responded that it was mullein.  I was shocked–really?  I have frequently read about mullein oil used for ear infections, but have never seen an image of this bloom.  I thought maybe I should move it, but she advised me that if it was doing well, then to just leave it alone.  So I did.

And this it was it progressed to….

I am so excited.  What a beautiful, yet sturdy plant!  During continuing research, I learned that a nickname for mullein is “Torch Plant.”  Its stems were once dipped in tallow to light the way.

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is a biennial plant.  During its first year, it grows as a rosette of woolly leaves.  The bright yellow flowers sprouting on the tall stalk arise during its second year.  I admit I am relieved I did not complete my weeding last year as I probably would have pulled out this sprout.

The most common use I have discovered for mullein is to make an infused oil with the flowers to help with ear infections.  Mullein is also conducive for respiratory problems and is soothing with some skin ailments.  The flowers also used to make a yellow dye.

Professional sources discussing the practical application of the mullein plant can be found at Mother Earth Living.  Wintergreen Botanicals offers a podcast talking about mullein and other herbs used for respiratory support.  Mountain Rose Herbs offers many products containing this herb.  I have purchased many quality products from Mountain Rose Herbs in the past and have been pleased with their services.

In the beginning of my learning journey about herbs, I purchased the book Essential Herbal Wisdom by Nancy Arrowsmith.  I remembered her words on page 6 that apply perfectly to this situation.

” An old Austrian peasant saying claims that the herbs needed to cure the major diseases of people living in a house will be found growing within a few yards of that house…….Certain climactic situations and soil types will produce plants with the medicinal properties needed to treat the diseases caused by those same situations.”

To me that is magical.  And comforting to know that what we need is often right in front of us.  Here it is plants, but maybe even in other areas of life.  I am excited to examine what else is growing in my own backyard.