The world of herbalism offers a rich materia medica for asthmatics. One of the most esteemed herbs for this purpose is mullein, which proliferates like a weed in many regions. Its soft, fuzzy leaves can be steeped in a teapot with boiling water, and the resulting steam inhaled through the spout to ease symptoms.
Describing an herb in print or through illustrations has its limitations. Therefore, if you wish to identify mullein, which may grow wild in your vicinity, I suggest consulting a book or chart with color photographs. Mullein leaves or flowers might be available at an herb shop or health food store.
Along the highways in the United States, you can spot tall mullein spikes in the wastelands bordering the roads. The downy leaves of mullein have long been used by herbalists for chest ailments, and the oil extracted from its flowers is commonly used for ear problems.
For coughs, collect the leaves in late summer before the plant blooms, tie them, hang them to dry in a cool, airy place. Then, add two tablespoons of dried mullein leaves to two large cups of milk (can be non-dairy), simmer for about ten minutes, strain, and consume warm twice daily to alleviate chest issues. This concoction has a somewhat sticky, slightly bitter taste but is considered restorative. The dried leaves can also be smoked or combined with other herbs like coltsfoot or elecampane to relieve persistent coughs and ease nasal and chest congestion.
Mullein flower oil is known to relieve ear pain. If you have access to mullein, collect the small flowers, infuse them in olive oil, and let the mixture sit in sunlight for three weeks, turning the bottle daily. This preparation acts as a bactericide. Additionally, two or three drops of mullein oil in the ear can help soothe ear pain and may assist in treating dry eczema within the ear.
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