Origin and history
White mullein, also known as "molène," is an ancient medicinal plant that is widely used in European pharmacopoeia. Native to Eurasia and North Africa, it grows spontaneously in dry, sunny, rocky terrain. Used since ancient times, the plant was renowned for its soothing properties on the respiratory tract. The Greeks and Romans made decoctions from it to soothe coughs and sore throats. In the Middle Ages, it was believed that its tall flower stalks warded off evil spirits, hence its nickname "Our Lady's candle." Even today, white mullein is an essential ingredient in herbal teas for chest ailments.
