St Francis Mullein(Verbascum thapsus; 250 mg/ml)
* Traditionally used to treat coughs associated with respiratory tract infections, acute or chronic bronchitis, tracheitis, asthma, and influenzal colds with respiratory catarrh
* Traditionally used as a lymphatic alterative and decongestant Mullein has been used traditionally for centuries in the Western herbal tradition, especially for coughs but also for its ability to detoxify by way of the lymphatic channels. Nineteenth and early 20th century Eclectic physicians HW Felter and JU Lloyd, for example, comment that, "Upon the upper portion of the respiratory tract its influence is pronounced, particularly where the larynx and trachea are involved. The infusion is useful in coughs, protracted colds, catarrh, haemoptysis (spitting blood), diarrhoea, dysentery, and piles. It is applicable to dry, hoarse coughs, which occur chiefly at night, as well as to cough associated with an abundant catarrhal discharge". Dedicating an entry to mullein in a chapter devoted to respiratory sedatives, naturopathic physician William A. Mitchell Jr. attests that this herb "is an excellent antitussive remedy." He adds moreover that he often uses mullein for asthma. Herbalist and physician Rudolf Fritz Weiss, MD corroborates that mullein has "a particular and well-founded reputation" as a cough remedy. "Mullein flowers contain a large amount of mucilage," Weiss continues, "and in addition an acid saponin and a small quantity of volatile oil. Mullein therefore is no longer a pure demulcent, but represents a transition to expectorant drugs containing saponin. The combination of two important principles gives this drug its special characteristic and medicinal properties. It is not so much prescribed for acute catarrhal conditions as held in reserve for sub-acute states and also chronic bronchitis, when there is still considerable irritation." Besides its ability to relieve coughs, mullein has antimicrobial properties that aid in the resolution of respiratory infections, including several strains of influenza A and B viruses. Mullein is very soothing to irritated ear canals during acute infections and is thus an ingredient in our celebrated Ear Oil. Herbalist Christopher Hobbs describes mullein as a "useful lymphatic cleanser" for skin problems like psoriasis. For this reason, mullein is also an ingredient of our lymphatic alterative combination, Laprinol, as well as part of Clear River Cleanse, our blood cleanser and general alterative formula. Administration: 25-40 drops (0.8 to 1.3 ml) three times daily in a little water on an empty stomach. Contraindications and Cautions:
Consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you are pregnant or if you intend to use this product for acute bronchitis or asthma. A NOTE ON TINCTURES
Tinctures are more readily absorbed by the body and have a high degree of bio-availability. As well, they have a long shelf life. Sometimes people ask us why tinctures are alcohol-based. There are very good reasons. Alcohol is critically important in the extraction of an herb`s medicinal ingredients. It also helps to stabilize and preserve them. Alcohol is the ideal carrier substance, conveying the therapeutic goodness of the herb to the body. In itself, too, science has proven that alcohol enhances the immune system and its defences. As for the amount of alcohol taken in an average dose of tincture, you`ll be surprised to learn that it`s about the same as what you`d find in an overly ripe banana! Tinctures remain the most practical way to take advantage of the amazing, health-giving power of herbs. Ingredients:
Wildcrafted Mullein flower & leaf
(Verbascum thapsus)
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