23 Sep 2024 — By adopting mullein or great mullein (Verbasum thapsus) through the Adopt-an-Herb program from the American Botanical Council (ABC), Nature’s Answer supports the organization’s botanical research and education goals. The botanical is primarily used to aid in the treatment of dry coughs, colds, chills, congestion and earaches.
Mullein has been used medicinally since ancient times. Its leaves and flowers are mildly demulcent, expectorant and astringent. In the 19th century, the plant was used for inflammatory diseases of the respiratory and genitourinary tracts and earaches.
“Adopting the mullein herb is important to Nature’s Answer as it plays a significant role in our product lineup, with Mullein Extract being particularly popular among our consumers,” details Dean D’Amelio, Nature’s Answer’s chief marketing officer.
“Mullein is an herb that many people have seen but may not know the full extent of its benefits. By supporting organizations like ABC, we aim to give back and help further educate the public about this remarkable herb.”
Botanical research data
The adoption also supports ABC’s HerbMedPro database, which ensures that the education resource is up-to-date for use by researchers, health professionals, industry members, students, consumers and other members of the herbal, dietary supplement and natural medicine communities.
The database details scientific and clinical research data on the use and health effects of over 275 herbs, spices, medicinal plants and fungi, such as California poppy.
“In today’s world, while information is abundant, it can be challenging to find reliable sources,” highlights Chris Martir, Nature’s Answer’s commercial development and innovation manager. “By educating the public with research-based information about mullein’s properties and uses, we aim to increase awareness of how this often-overlooked herb can support their health.”
“Additionally, through collaborations with organizations like ABC, we can reach a wider audience and promote the integration of natural products into daily wellness routines. We hope adopting the mullein herb will enhance people’s understanding of its medicinal benefits by providing access to comprehensive and accurate information,” Martir adds.
The latest botanical adoption makes Nature’s Answer the 79th organization to support ABCs educational efforts to organize and disseminate reliable, traditional and science-based information on botanicals and fungi.
In addition, ABC addresses ongoing adulteration in the botanical industry. It is one of the founding partners of the US Botanical Adulterants Prevention Program.
Recently, Nutrition Insight discussed adulteration rates in five popular botanicals with ABC chief science officer Stefan Gafner based on a scientific review by the organization.