Botanical Name: Verbascum thapsus
Common Names: Velvet Dock, Candlewick Plant, Aaron’s Rod, Hag’s Taper, Great Mullein
Herbal Energetics:
- Temperature: Warming
- Moisture: Drying
Flavor:
- slightly sweet, salty
Herbal Actions:
- Expectorant (helps expel mucus)
- Demulcent (soothes and protects irritated tissues)
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antispasmodic
- Astringent
- Lung tonic
- Lymphatic tonic
- Mild sedative
Organ Affinities:
- Lungs
- Respiratory system
- Lymphatic system
- Skin
Uses:
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Respiratory Health: Mullein leaf is most well-known for its beneficial effects on the respiratory system. It acts as an expectorant, helping to expel mucus and ease coughing in conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, colds, and pneumonia. Its demulcent properties soothe irritated mucous membranes, making it particularly useful for dry, hacking coughs and sore throats.
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Lung Tonic: Mullein is considered a lung tonic, meaning it strengthens and supports lung function over time. It’s often used as a preventative measure for those with chronic lung conditions or a history of respiratory issues.
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Anti-Inflammatory: Mullein’s anti-inflammatory properties make it useful for reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract and other tissues. It can help soothe conditions such as laryngitis, tonsillitis, and even gastrointestinal inflammation.
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Earaches: Mullein flower-infused oil is a traditional remedy for earaches and ear infections. The oil helps to reduce inflammation and pain, and its antimicrobial properties can help fight infection.
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Lymphatic Support: Mullein is a gentle lymphatic tonic, helping to stimulate and support the lymphatic system. It can be used in cases of swollen lymph nodes, especially when related to respiratory infections.
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Skin Health: The anti-inflammatory and astringent properties of mullein make it beneficial for treating skin conditions such as wounds, burns, and hemorrhoids. It can be applied topically as a poultice or in salves and creams.
Preparation and Dosage:
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Mullein Leaf:
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Infusion (Tea):
- Dosage: Steep 1–2 teaspoons of dried mullein leaves in a cup of boiling water for 10–15 minutes. Strain carefully to remove any fine hairs, and drink 2–3 cups daily for respiratory support, especially for coughs and colds.
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Tincture:
- Dosage: 2–4 ml (about 40–80 drops) of a 1:5 tincture in alcohol, taken 2–3 times daily. Use for respiratory support, lymphatic health, or as an anti-inflammatory.
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Poultice:
- Dosage: Apply fresh or dried mullein leaves, moistened with warm water, directly to the skin for wounds, burns, or swollen lymph nodes. Wrap with a clean cloth and leave on for 20–30 minutes.
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Steam Inhalation:
- Dosage: Add a handful of dried mullein leaves to a bowl of steaming water. Drape a towel over your head and inhale the steam to relieve congestion and soothe irritated lungs.
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Infusion (Tea):
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Mullein Flower-Infused Oil:
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Earache Treatment:
- Dosage: Warm the oil slightly and place 2–3 drops into the affected ear, 1–2 times daily. Use with caution if there is any suspicion of a ruptured eardrum.
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Earache Treatment:
Contraindications:
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Allergies:
- Potential for Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to mullein, particularly if they are sensitive to plants in the Scrophulariaceae family. Symptoms may include skin irritation, rash, or respiratory discomfort.
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Fine Hairs:
- Irritation Risk: The fine hairs on mullein leaves can be irritating to the throat and digestive tract if not carefully strained from teas or tinctures. Always strain mullein preparations through a fine cloth or coffee filter before consumption.
Materia magica:
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Planetary Correspondence: Saturn (associated with structure, discipline, and boundaries) and the Sun (linked to vitality, healing, and illumination). This duality reflects mullein’s grounding yet uplifting energy, providing both physical and emotional support.
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Deities: Mullein is often associated with deities of protection, healing, and transformation, such as:
- Hecate: The Greek goddess of magic, crossroads, and protection.
- Apollo: The Greek god of healing, the sun, and prophecy.
- Brigid: The Celtic goddess of healing, poetry, and smithcraft.
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Magical Uses:
- Protection: Mullein is traditionally used in protection magic. It can be carried as a talisman, hung in the home, or used in protection spells to ward off negative energies and evil spirits. It’s also known as “hag’s taper” and was historically used to light the way during rituals or as a torch in processions.
- Healing: Mullein is associated with healing, particularly of the lungs and respiratory system. It can be used in spells, rituals, or teas to promote physical healing, especially for lung conditions or throat issues.
- Divination & Dream Work: Mullein is believed to enhance psychic abilities and is used in divination rituals or placed under the pillow to promote prophetic dreams. It’s often used to connect with spirits or receive guidance from the divine.
- Courage & Strength: Mullein is associated with the Sun and can be used in spells or rituals to boost courage, inner strength, and vitality. It’s believed to help overcome fears and provide protection during challenging times.
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Rituals:
- Protection Charms: Create a charm bag with dried mullein leaves and carry it for protection against negative energies or harmful influences.
- Healing Rituals: Use mullein in healing rituals or spells, particularly for respiratory conditions or to strengthen overall health.
- Dream Magic: Place dried mullein leaves under your pillow or in a dream sachet to encourage prophetic dreams and enhance psychic abilities.
- Purification & Cleansing: Burn dried mullein leaves as incense to cleanse a space, object, or person of negative energies and promote a sense of peace and protection.