Herb Profile: Mullein

Mullein, Verbascum thapsus

Mullein is one of the premier cough and respiratory remedies of the Europrean tradition. It is particularly used for a dry and irritable cough. Mullein leaf opens the lungs, reduces coughing and tightness, lubricates the mucosa, relaxes the larynx, opens the sinuses and creates a feeling of openness in the head. Mullein also has an influence on the nerves and the mind. It has a calming effect on inflamed and irritated nerves.

We pick the leaves in the spring. The leaves are most often dried and used in tea in combination with other herbs. We also tincture them fresh to use in respiratory formulas.

Around late June every year our second year mullein plants shoot up tall stalks filled with yellow flowers. They bloom for a bit, then fall off, and more buds along the stalk start to flower so we have a many months long succession of blooms at the farm. Mullein flowers are used to treat ear infections. See recipe below. 

In the fall we harvest the root. Uses for the root are outlined in detail on Medicinal uses of Mullein Root By Christa Sinadinos and on Jim MacDonald’s page.
A brief summary includes uses for urinary incontinence, bladder mucosa inflammation, bladder infections, nerve pain and spine structural alignment among many others.

Preparations

Mullein can be used as a dry herb tea or fresh herb tincture. The dry herb can also be smoked and is often part of smokers transition blends.

Soothing Lung Tea

Decoct 1 part astragalus, 1 part schisandra, and 1/4 part licorice for 10-15 minutes. Turn off the heat and add 1 part plantain and 1 part mullein leaf, cover and let steep for 5 to 10 minutes. This tea is generally soothing and building to the lung tissue. Drink as needed or as a tonic.

Mullein and Garlic Ear Oil

Mullein flowers and garlic infused into olive oil are a go to remedy for ear infections. Mullein flowers are a beautiful yellow and when they come, are in abundance. Pick the flowers straight into a jar trying to minimize contact with the skin as the oils on our hands diminish the quality of the medicine. Cover the flowers with oil and infuse for 4 weeks. Make an oil of garlic (using olive oil as the base) and mix the two in equal parts to be applied directly to the ear. To use first warm the oil to body temperature and using a dropper apply 3 to 4 drops into the ear. Massage the outer ear and around the base of the ear after applying. Administer the oil every 30 minutes or as needed.

Cautions/Contraindications

None.

Growing Greek Mullein 

Hardiness: Zones 5–9
Light: Full sun
Soil: Dry, well-drained soil
Water: Low
Propagation: Seed
Notes: Tall biennial or short-lived perennial with large yellow flower spikes.