Verbascum thapsus, commonly known as mullein, has been used in various types of medicines for a variety of conditions for thousands of years. From treating the flu to ear infections to diarrhea, this plant has a long history in medicine. (WebMD) In addition to these uses, verbascum thapsus can be used for a number of other things including yellow hair dye and as a technique for catching fish.
Seeds of the mullein plant are considered a narcotic when ingested by fish. The seeds contain chemicals known as piscicides which will temporarily paralyze fish, making it easy to catch them. When ingested by the fish, either orally or through the gills, it will be stunned and float to the top of the water. (Kritzon) Since the chemical does not affect mammals, the fish that ingested them is safe for human consumption. (Schwartz) This technique is commonly used in South American tribes, but is also a useful technique for survival in the wilderness where the mullein plant can be found. (Kritzon)
The flowers of the plant can also be soaked in boiling water to create a dye. This technique was used by ancient Roman women to dye their hair a golden color. The flower can also be used to restore the original color of gray hair. (Keeler) The dye can become a green color when mixed with sulfuric acid as well as a brown color when alkali metals are added. (Bergeron)
References
WebMD. (2009). Mullein. Retrieved March 16, 2015.
Schwartz, D. (2006). Common Mullein. Retrieved March 16, 2015.
Kritzon, C. (2003). Fishing with Poisons. Retrieved March 16, 2015.
Keeler, K. (2013, July 29). Plant Story: Common Mullein and its Folklore. Retrieved March 16, 2015.
Bergeron, K. (2000). Mullein. Retrieved March 16, 2015.