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As summer progresses and gives way to fall, we’re preparing to harvest the season's wild mullein crops. Mullein, with its tall yellow flower stalks and velvety leaves, is such a distinct and easily identifiable plant, even for the most amateur of foragers. It is more than just a picturesque addition to the landscape; it is also a powerhouse in herbal medicine.
Due to its abundant growth, relative safety, and efficacy, mullein has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties and is a staple in many natural remedies. Whether you seek to support your respiratory system, promote lung health, need to manage an ear infection, or just want extra support through the cold and flu season, mullein, with its versatile uses, is your friend.
A Note on Ethically Harvesting Mullein
As with any foraged plant, it is imperative that you use ethical harvesting practices. To harvest mullein sustainably, select leaves near the bottom of the plant or flowers from the top of the stalk. Mullein is a biennial plant, meaning it grows small the first year. Then, in its second year, it will grow larger and flower. If harvesting from mature (flowering) plants, it is okay to harvest all the leaves as the plant won’t return, but be sure to let the flowers sow their seeds. (If mullein doesn't grow near you, you can also purchase wild foraged mullein from our apothecary.)
5 Ways to Use Mullein
Mullein Tea
One of the most popular and straightforward ways to use mullein is as a soothing tea or decoction. Mullein is renowned for its ability to support respiratory health and can be especially useful during the cold and flu season, or anytime your lungs need a little extra care.
How to make mullein tea
Making mullein tea is as simple as adding 1-2 teaspoons of crushed dried mullein leaves to a cup and topping it with boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes, strain, and enjoy the warm, soothing tea. If you have a cold or cough, a touch of raw honey can make it the perfect tea for what ails you.
Mullein Smoke
It may seem counterintuitive to smoke something for respiratory issues, but mullein smoke has been used for centuries as a partner for lung support. The smoke has anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties, making smoking mullein a unique way to relax and soothe airways.
How to make mullein smokes
For this herbal project, you'll need well-dried and crushed mullein leaves. Add a small amount of dried crushed mullein leaves to a piece of rolling paper and roll the plant matter up until it resembles a cigarette. If you don’t want to roll it into a “cigarette,” you could also simply add the dried leaves to a pipe. To smoke, take slow and shallow inhales.
Mullein Tincture
Making a mullein tincture is an excellent option for those who prefer a more concentrated remedy. Tinctures are alcohol-based extracts that make dosage and delivery simple. Mullein is one of the key ingredients in our Lung Tonic, and when making a tincture, you can use mullein alone or in combination with other respiratory herbs.
How to make mullein tincture
Fill a mason jar ⅔ of the way with dried mullein leaves, then top off with high-grade vodka. Allow to set in a cool, dark place for 30 days, shaking the jar every few days to aid in extraction. Once finished, strain the tincture, bottle, and label. For complete instructions, view the post below.
Mullein Salve
Mullein's high mucilage content makes it wonderful for soothing and softening irritated skin. It can also be used as a first-aid ointment for minor wounds, burns, bruises, and skin infections.
How to make a mullein salve
Before you can make a mullein salve, you will first need to create a mullein-infused oil. Complete instructions for oil infusions are available here. Once you have your oil infusion, add ½ cup of infused oil and 1 ½ TBLS of beeswax to a double boiler. Heat on low until all the wax has melted before pouring it into containers to cool and solidify.
Mullein Flower Ear Oil
This is an age-old remedy for combating the common earache. While the leaf is most widely used to support respiratory health, the beautiful yellow flowers of the mullein plant have antiseptic, infection-fighting, and pain-relieving properties.
How to make mullein flower ear oil
This recipe works best with flowers that have been picked and dried for a day or two but are not completely dry. Fill a mason jar ⅔ of the way up with your mullein flowers, then top with the carrier oil of your choice to just below the rim of the jar. Seal and place in a cool, dark place for 3-4 weeks, shaking the jar every day or two. Once infused, strain the flowers from the oil, bottle, and label. To use the oil, heat slightly (to body temperature), place a couple of drops in the ear, and massage in.
Enjoying Mighty Mullein
Mullein is often seen as a weed, but we invite you to look past that status and consider the medicinal properties of a plant that likely grows wild in your yard. If you’re already familiar with mullein, share your favorite recipes in the comments below. If mullein is new to you, we’d love to hear the story as you become familiar with this fuzzy plant, friend. Until next time, friends, be well, and as always,
Disclaimer:
Content from thisunboundlife.com is meant to be informational in nature and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice. Remember that just because something is “natural” does not always mean it is safe for every person. When it comes to herbal medicine, many plants should be avoided when pregnant or nursing and some can cause extreme interactions with prescription and over-the-counter medicine.
While we strive to be 100% accurate, utilizing information from scientific studies, trusted sources, and verified publications, we are not health professionals, medical doctors, or nutritionists. It is solely up to the reader to verify nutritional information and health benefits with qualified professionals for all edible plants listed on this website and to ensure proper plant identification.
The information provided by this site is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Before using herbal preparations, always research, speak to a professional regarding any significant concerns, and never fail to seek medical advice when needed.