Mullein

Verbascum thaspus

For the month of March I am choosing to feature one of the fluffiest herbs I’ve ever worked with. Mullein has long been used in traditional folk medicine to heal respiratory illnesses such as asthma, tuberculosis, chest congestion, and coughing. It has also been used as a poultice to help heal and soothe skin irritations, as well as in teas to help with inflammation in the urinary tract. Mullein is a very diverse plant with the following actions: expectorant, demulcent, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and vulnerary.

Nowadays we can find this herb in cough syrups, as well as herbal smoking blends. The Native Americans often smoked this herb, but they also used it to line their moccasins and to make torches. Meanwhile, the quaker women were known to rub this herb on their cheeks to create a rosy glow. This herb is associated with the heart chakra and is believed to instill strength and ward of enemies and evil spirits. I think this very diverse herb is so cool, and I am so grateful to be able to work with it!

Hawthorn Crataegus

How could I not choose hawthorn to feature as the herb of the month for February? Hawthorn is known for it’s heart strengthening qualities, and is also used to support connective tissue. Also known as a cardiovascular tonic, the compounded version of this herb (leaves, flowers, and berries) brings micronutrients and microchemistry to the heart and surrounding arteries and capillaries. Additionally, connective tissue falvonoids reinforce the collagen tissue with cross fibers which strengthens the tissues in and around the cardiovascular system, as well as supports the treatment of spinal subluxations and other disorders of the connective tissue.

With best results seen after taken for 6-12 months consecutively, hawthorn is indicated for the following:

  • rhythmical disturbances of the heart (palpitations, arrhythmias, and tachycardia)

  • cardiac weakness after infections

  • elevated cholesterol

  • hyper/hypotension

  • fatty degeneration of the heart

  • myocardial degeneration and acute myocardial insufficiency

  • hernias

  • varicosities

  • prolapsed organs

  • collagen deficient disorders

  • inability to hold spinal adjustments