Mullein flower - Latin Name: (Verbascum thapsus)

Herbal Anecdote: A nineteen-century home remedy included dried flowers or roots of mullein used as cigarettes for asthmatics. The medication was learned from the Mohegan and Penobscot Indians who smoked dried or powdered leaves, and the Menominees who smoked roots of mullein for pulmonary disease relief. German fishermen reportedly throw the seeds onto the surface of water to sedate fish.

Traditional Uses: The leaves and flowers have been used for treating respiratory problems such as dry coughs and bronchitis for many years. Mullein was a traditional treatment for diarrhea and rheumatism, and ointments for bums and earaches.