Mullein

Mullein Leaf – Wildcrafted Respiratory Support

🌿 Mullein Leaf

Botanical Name: Verbascum thapsus

Common Names: Great Mullein • Velvet Leaf • Candlewick Plant

Plant Family: Scrophulariaceae

Origin: Commonly grown and wildcrafted throughout Europe and North America

Part Used: Leaf

Primary Use: Internal & External

✨ Description

Soft as velvet and tall as a torch, Mullein Leaf is one of the most trusted respiratory herbs in traditional herbalism. Its large, fuzzy leaves are gentle yet powerful, offering soothing support to the lungs, throat, and bronchial system.

Mullein is often called a “lung tonic” because of its ability to help clear mucus, calm irritation, and support easy breathing. It works especially well when there is congestion, heaviness in the chest, or a lingering cough after illness.

This is a cooling, moistening herb that coats and comforts irritated tissues while gently encouraging the body to release buildup.

🌬️ Primary Uses

Respiratory Support

Helps loosen and clear mucus

Supports bronchial comfort

Soothes dry, irritated cough

Supports smokers or those exposed to environmental pollutants

Lung Cleanse Often included in lung detox blends to gently clear congestion without overstimulation.

Throat & Vocal Support Calms scratchy throat and supports vocal strain.

🍵 How to Use (Internal)

Tea / Infusion

Steep 1–2 teaspoons dried leaf in 8 oz hot water for 10–15 minutes.

Strain very well using a fine strainer or cloth to remove tiny leaf hairs.

Drink 1–3 cups daily as needed.

Steam Inhalation

Add a handful of leaves to hot water, cover head with towel, and inhale steam for sinus and chest support.

🔥 Is Mullein Smokeable?

Yes. Mullein is traditionally used as a base herb in herbal smoke blends.

How to Use:

Use dried, finely crumbled leaf

Can be smoked alone or blended with peppermint, marshmallow leaf, or skullcap

Known for being smooth and non-harsh

Many people use mullein in herbal blends as a non-addictive alternative to tobacco.

🐾 For Pets & Livestock

Mullein is commonly used in herbal animal care.

Dogs & Cats (Tea or Infusion):

Small amounts of strained tea can support mild cough

Always consult a veterinarian for dosing

Ear Support (Topical Oil):

Mullein-infused oil is traditionally used for ear discomfort in pets.

Only use externally and never apply to a ruptured eardrum.

Horses & Livestock:

Used traditionally for respiratory support

Can be mixed into feed as a dried herb

💧 External Uses

Infused oil for ear comfort

Chest rub infusions

Herbal compress for inflamed glands

Added to bath blends for respiratory relief

🔮 Metaphysical & Energetic Uses

Mullein is considered a protector of breath and voice.

Encourages clear communication

Supports speaking one’s truth

Used traditionally in protection rituals

Associated with light and guidance

Historically, dried mullein stalks were dipped in tallow and used as torches, symbolizing illumination and clarity.

🌿 Pairing Suggestions

Marshmallow Leaf or Root – for added soothing moisture

Peppermint – for sinus clarity

Lobelia – for deeper bronchial support

Skullcap – if cough is stress-related

Yerba Santa – for stubborn mucus

🌼 Harvest & Sourcing

Mullein grows abundantly in open fields and roadside areas. The leaves are harvested in their first year of growth before the tall flowering stalk appears. Proper drying preserves the soft texture and gentle aroma.

⚖️ Energetics & Taste

Taste: Mild, slightly earthy, soft

Energetics: Cooling, moistening, soothing

Action: Demulcent, expectorant, gentle lung tonic

⚠️ Warnings

Always strain tea thoroughly to remove fine hairs

Use caution if allergic to plants in the figwort family

Consult a healthcare provider if respiratory symptoms are severe or persistent

🌿 A Note from the Herbalist

Mullein is one of the first herbs I reach for when someone says, “I can’t get this cough to move.” It is gentle enough for daily use yet effective enough to feel. It doesn’t force the lungs. It supports them.

For smokers, singers, children with lingering congestion, or anyone healing after a cold, mullein is like a soft blanket for the chest.

It reminds us that breath is sacred.

Affirmation:

“I breathe deeply and freely. My lungs are clear and strong.”

🏷️ Tags

Respiratory Support

Lung Cleanse

Herbal Smoke Blends

Immune Support

Children’s Support (with guidance)

Herbal Oils & External Use

Caribbean & Folk Remedies

Nerve & Stress Support