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Mullein Materia Medica
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Mullein Materia Medica

Mullein Benefits for Lung Support and Emotional Resilience

There’s something magical about walking along sunny banks and grassy hedgerows and stumbling upon the tall, regal stalks of Mullein. With its woolly leaves and bright yellow flowers standing proudly against the backdrop of the wild, Mullein feels like nature’s gentle guardian—a plant that whispers stories of resilience, renewal, and support. 


This month, we’re exploring the wonders of Verbascum thapsus—our Herb of the Month—and how its time-tested benefits can help you breathe easier, both literally and figuratively.


Mullein’s Materia Medica

Botanical Name: Verbascum thapsus
Family: Scrophulariaceae
Energetics: Sweet, Astringent, Cool, Moist, Drying, Softening, Relaxing, Thickening, Pleasant Odor, Bitter, Mucilaginous, Alterative
Part Used: Flower, Seed, Root, Leaf
Constituents: Mucilage, Gum, Resin, Essential Oil. Saponins, Flavonoids, Carotene, Tannins, Trace Minerals
Therapeutic Properties: Expectoration, Anti-inflammatory, Astringent, Hemostatic, Demulcent, Anti-bacterial


A Glimpse into Mullein’s Legacy

Mullein has been a steadfast companion to humans for centuries. Revered for its medicinal properties, it has been used across cultures to soothe respiratory ailments and balance the body. Historically, Mullein was considered a “Saturnine plant,” tied to the planet Saturn, representing structure, wisdom, and healing. Its towering growth—up to five feet tall—reflects its purpose: to support and uplift, much like a beacon of light on a cloudy day.


You’ll find Mullein thriving along roadsides, sunny slopes, and hedgerows. However, when gathering this herb, wildcrafting ethics come into play. It’s vital to harvest only from clean, chemical-free areas and to leave enough of the plant intact so it can continue to thrive and reseed. Gratitude is essential, as is respecting its natural lifecycle by avoiding over harvesting.


A Symphony of Supportive Properties

At first glance, Mullein’s soft, woolly leaves might seem humble, but an incredible array of supportive properties lie beneath its surface. Whether you’re battling a dry, persistent cough, suppressed grief, or simply need support during times of respiratory discomfort, Mullein is here to help.


Mullein affects multiple systems in the body, including the lungs, kidneys, and nervous system. Its energetics—cooling, softening, and astringent—make it particularly effective for hot, inflamed, or stagnant conditions. Here’s how each part of the plant contributes:

  • Mullein Flower: Ideal for dry, asthmatic coughs, the flower offers strong demulcent properties to soothe irritation and support the nervous system.
  • Mullein Leaf: More astringent than the flower, the leaf supports kidney and respiratory health. Its ability to loosen mucus secretions makes it especially helpful for dry, wheezing coughs.
  • Mullein Root: With potent astringent and diuretic properties, the root offers strength and stability to those struggling with systemic imbalances.
  • Mullein Seed: Known for its diuretic and bronchodilator effects.

Mullein’s constituents, including mucilage, flavonoids, and tannins, make it a versatile ally for both internal and external use. Whether sipping on a soothing infusion or applying a poultice to reduce swelling, this herb offers gentle yet profound support.


Finding Balance in Breath and Emotion

The lungs are not just physical organs but also deeply tied to emotion. In traditional energetic systems, suppressed grief can manifest as lung stagnation, leading to conditions like depression, dampness, or even physical congestion. Mullein, with its ability to open and soften, provides a space for both physical and emotional release.


Have you ever noticed waking up around 3-5 a.m. struggling to catch your breath or feeling the weight of unprocessed emotions? This is known as “Lung Hour” in traditional medicine, a time when the lungs are most active in cleansing and renewal. Mullein acts as a gentle ally during these moments, encouraging the lungs to release what no longer serves you, both physically and emotionally.


What Kind of Cough Are You Dealing With?

Mullein’s versatility makes it a go-to herb for various coughs and respiratory conditions. But understanding the type of cough you’re experiencing can help you choose the right herbs and approach:

  • Dry, Irritable Cough: Mullein flower combined with demulcents like marshmallow or licorice can soothe irritation and coat the throat.
  • Tension-Induced Cough: Pair Mullein with relaxant expectorants like wild cherry bark or thyme for coughs that disrupt sleep.
  • Stagnant Mucus: In later stages of respiratory infections, Mullein can be used alongside stimulating expectorants like elecampane to clear congestion.

How to Use Mullein

Incorporating Mullein into your wellness routine is easy and deeply rewarding. Here’s how to get started:

  • Tincture: Take 10-40 drops (1-4 mL) up to four times daily.
  • Infusion: Steep 1 teaspoon of Mullein leaf in a cup of boiling water for 10-12 minutes.
  • Decoction: Simmer 6-14 grams of the herb to create a more potent remedy.
  • Poultice: Apply topically to reduce swelling or soothe inflamed skin.

Pro Tip: If preparing an infusion, always strain the tea carefully to remove the tiny hairs on the leaves, as they can cause throat irritation.



Trust in the Wisdom of Mullein

Mullein, with its rich history and profound supportive properties, is a testament to the power of plants in restoring balance to both body and mind. Whether exploring it for the first time or returning to an old friend, this remarkable herb invites you to reconnect—with your breath, body, and life’s natural rhythms.


Breathe deeply. Feel supported. Trust the gentle guardian that is Mullein.




Resources:

1) Culpepper's Color Herbal. Sterling Publishing CO.1983. p130

2) Planetary Herbology. By Tierra, Michael. p 205

3)Herbal Vade Mecum. By Skenderi, Gazmend. p.142

4) Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. Chevallier. p.112

5) The Energetics of Western Herbs Peter Holmes p 474-476

6) Herbal Medicine From the Earth. Dr. Sharol Tilgner. p125

7) A Seasonal Model for Working with Depression. Maier. Medicines from the Earth. 2021

8) Medical Herbalism, A Journal for the Clinical Practitioner. Volume 16. Number 1. by Paul Bergner. Influenza: Treating the dry irritable cough.

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