Greater Mullein, (pronounced without the ‘e’) or Verbascum thapsus, has long been used for its help as an expectorant with its demulcent and astringent properties. The leaves and flowers are rich in saponins, responsible for the potent respiratory benefits. Apparently very effective in alleviating bronchitis, dry hacking coughs, whooping cough, colds, flu, and sinusitis. Studies undertaken at Clemson University in South Carolina show its potent antibacterial qualities against, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus epidermis, and Escherichia coli. Greater Mullein is a native plant that is easily seen, growing to over two metres tall with sliver hairy leaves and bright yellow flowers. The name Mullein derives from the French meaning for soft, and the leaves were often placed inside shoes for extra comfort. In a still ongoing experiment, first started in 1879, a botanist buried bottle of various seeds in sand later periodically digging them up to test how well they responded to dormancy, of the Verbascum thapsus seeds buried over 140 years almost all germinated.
It goes without saying that if you're pregnant (or are under the doctor for anything) caution should be exercised with herbal decoctions.
