Mullein is a common wildflower native to much of Europe and Asia, but it can grow almost anywhere. The primary chemical constituents of Mullein include resin, saponins, glycoside (aucubin), flavonoids (hesperidin, verbascoside), choline, magnesium, saponins, mucilage, tannins, and carotene. Mullein also contains iron, magnesium, potassium, sulfur, and calcium phosphate. Different parts of the plant have different properties. The leaves are anodyne, antibacterial, antispasmodic, astringent, demulcent, diuretic, expectorant, mucilaginous, sedative, and vulnerary. The flowers are antispasmodic, demulcent, emollient, mucilaginous, nervine, and sedative. Mullein leaves and flowers are classified in traditional herbal literature as expectorants (promoting the discharge of mucus) and demulcents (soothing irritated mucous membranes). Historically, mullein has been used by herbalists as a remedy for the respiratory tract, particularly in cases of irritating coughs with bronchial congestion. Some herbal texts extend the therapeutic use to pneumonia and asthma. The leaves of mullein also were fed to animals with respiratory problems. The seeds were once used by Native Americans to paralyze fish and make them easier to catch. In general, mullein reduces inflammation of the trachea and soothes irritated tissues. Due to its mucilage content, mullein has also been used topically by herbalists as a soothing emollient for inflammatory skin conditions and burns. Externally, an extract of this herb made in olive oil has been used to soothe any inflamed surface and to ease ear problems. Mullein flowers are also made into an oil for the treatment of frostbite, ringworm, hemorrhoids, and bruises. The leaves have been smoked to treat asthma and bronchitis. Mullein has also been used to relieve constipation, counteract sleeplessness, protect the kidneys, and help ease nervous tension.