MULLEIN
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                                    CULTIVATION:
     Mullein  is  a erect, very soft, and  woolly  biennial. Grows to about 3-6
     feet in height. The leaves are grey-green in color. Flowers are yellow and
     in clusters on dense erect spike.

     Mullein  needs a sunny and sheltered  location, and well drained soil. Sow
     seeds  in spring or summer. Mullein will  self-seed in light soil. It will
     not  tolerate cold and wet conditions. To keep it under control remove the
     flower  heads before the seeds ripen. Thin and transplant to 2 feet apart.
     Not suitable for indoor cultivation.

     Collect  flowers  as  they  open, and  leaves  during  their first season.
     Harvest  the roots in autumn. Harvest up to one third of the leaves in the
     first  year. Remove the green parts  from flowers, then dry gently without
     artificial  heat,  as  its  healing power  is  connected  with  the yellow
     coloring matters. leaves can by dried normally.


                   CULINARY USES: ============== NO CULINARY USES


                                   MEDICAL  USES:
     Mullein  contains  a substance called  Mucilage,  which swells and becomes
     slippery  as  it  absorbs water. This  probably  accounts for its soothing
     action on the throat.

     To  help  treat  hemorrhoids, apply a  compress  made with a strong cooled
     infusion. Mullein possible does more than help soothe hemorrhoids, it also
     contains  Tannis, which are astringent. And  one study showed the herb has
     anti-inflammatory properties as well.

     For  a  infusion that can help sooth  coughs and sore throats and that may
     help  treat diarrhea, use 1-2 teaspoons of dried leaves or flowers per cup
     of  boiling water. Steep for 10 minutes. Drink up to 3 cups a day. Mullein
     taste bitter, add sugar or honey to sweeten the drink.

     Diluted mullein infusion may be given cautiously to children under the age
     of 2 to help soothe persistent coughs.


                                      WARNING:
     Mullein  seeds  are  toxic  and may  cause  poisoning.  There have been no
     reports of adverse effect from the herb's leaves, flowers, or roots.


                                    OTHER  USES:
     The  flowers  will attract bees to the  garden. The flowers can be used in
     arrangement. Dry flowers can be added to potpourris.


                                  COSMETIC  USES:
     Use  the flowers in a cream or facial steam to soften and soothe the skin.
     Make a strong infusion to brighten fair hair.