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Mullein, or Aaron's Rod as it is also known (verbascum thapsus) is an upright biennial found with a widespread distribution. Having been around since ancient Greece, this herb has stood the test of time as a practical, useful plant. Mullein Environment Occasionally, mullein can make an annual appearance, although more often than not it intermits year on year. Natively, mullein can be found in Europe and Asia, including east China, as well as North America in modern times. It is a lover of dry, 'poor' soil, and can be found growing wild on wastelands and roadsides. Aaron's Rod has proven to be particularly adaptable, and can survive in notably harsh conditions, despite a preference for sunlight and dryness over moist shade. Mullein Appearance Mullein has a very distinctive appearance, growing almost vertically up to 2m (six and a half feet). It bears a leafy base with a thick cylindrical flower, which occupies most of the height of the plant. The flowers grow in little yellow spikes, and grow to their height in early autumn. The generic name for the plant comes from the Latin for 'beard' on account of its woolly growth, and the common synonym candlewick alludes to the fact that the flowers were used as such in archaic candle making processes. Its uses in modern times, however, extend far beyond an accessory to manufacture. Mullein Medical Uses Mullein was originally used by the Greeks to ward off evil spirits and demons, although it remains practical in this modern age. It is especially associated with respiratory and chest conditions including but not limited to dry coughing, particularly amongst children, and tonsillitis, as well as asthma and hoarseness. Mullein is thought to be particularly soothing, and contain antiseptic properties to help fight infections. Furthermore, it can be used externally as an ointment to treat burns and sores, as well as smoked in a cigarette to lessen the symptoms of asthma. Mullein can also be used to dye the hair, although care must be taken to avoid contact with the skin until its fine hairs have been stripped to avoid irritation. It is important, especially when drinking mullein tonic, to filter initially and avoid drinking the hairs. This will avoid the irritation in the throat and mouth which can often ensue as a consequence of consumption. Mullein Preparations Before drinking mullein, it is critical to conduct this filtering process, advisably with fine muslin to eradicate as much hair as possible. Additionally, it can also be made into a lotion for external application by cooking in olive oil over a low heat to create a reduction. Again this should be pressed through muslin to eradicate impurities, before leaving to settle. Alternatively, an infusion can be created with boiling water to use as a gargle for topical use, or as a drink to be consumed three to four times a day. Before any preparations, it is important to harvest mullein flowers as distinct from its stock, and allow to thoroughly dry in a shady area. It is also important to avoid exposure to significant temperatures, which can denature the properties contained within, and lessen the effectiveness of any subsequent treatment.
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