Mullein, scientifically known as Verbascum thapsus, is a biennial herbaceous plant renowned for its towering flower spikes and soft, velvety leaves. Native to Europe and Asia, mullein has become widely naturalized across North America, thriving in disturbed soils, roadsides, and open fields. Traditionally, it has been employed in herbal medicine, particularly for its beneficial effects on the respiratory system. Its leaves and flowers have been used to alleviate coughs, bronchitis, and other pulmonary ailments, functioning as an expectorant and soothing agent. Beyond its medicinal applications, mullein has a rich history in folklore and has been utilized in various cultural practices.
Mullein
Monograph
Myth and Lore
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus), with its tall stalks and soft, velvety leaves, has been steeped in folklore and mystical practices across various cultures. Its associations range from protective charms to divinatory tools, reflecting its esteemed position in traditional magic and herbalism.
Protective Qualities and Warding Off Evil
Throughout history, mullein has been revered for its protective properties. In European and Asian traditions, it was believed to repel evil spirits and negative energies. In India, for instance, mullein was considered a safeguard against malevolent forces and magic, akin to the protective reputation of St. John's Wort in Western traditions.
The plant's tall, sturdy stalks were sometimes dipped in tallow and used as torches, known as "Hag's Tapers," during rituals and ceremonies to ward off dark entities. This practice symbolized illumination and protection against the unknown.
Associations with Deities and Spiritual Realms
Mullein's connection to deities is notably highlighted in its association with Hecate, the Greek goddess of witchcraft, magic, and crossroads. The plant's use as a torch aligns with Hecate's depiction of carrying light through darkness, symbolizing guidance and protection. In rituals invoking Hecate, mullein serves as a link to her illuminating and safeguarding energies.
Divination and Love Spells
In American folk practices, mullein played a role in love divination. Practitioners would use its leaves in rituals to reveal the identity of future lovers or to ensure fidelity in relationships. This tradition underscores mullein's versatility in both protective and romantic contexts.
Healing and Banishing Rituals
Mullein's healing properties extend into the mystical realm, where it is used in sympathetic magic to promote health and recovery. For instance, stuffing poppet dolls with mullein leaves aims to restore vitality to the afflicted individual. Additionally, mullein is employed in banishing rituals to dispel evil spirits and negative energies, often burned as incense or used in cleansing baths to purify spaces and individuals.
Dream Work and Spiritual Communication
The herb is also valued for its role in dream work and enhancing spiritual communication. Placing mullein under the pillow is believed to protect against nightmares and facilitate insightful dreams, aiding practitioners in their divinatory pursuits.
Mullein's rich tapestry of myth and lore reflects its multifaceted role in mystical practices. From serving as a protective talisman against malevolent forces to acting as a conduit for divine connection and healing, mullein remains a cherished herb in the realm of magic and spirituality.
Herbal Monograph: Mullein
Botanical Name: Verbascum thapsus
Common Names: Mullein, Great Mullein, Woolly Mullein, Aaron’s Rod
Family: Scrophulariaceae
Plant Description:
Mullein is a biennial plant native to Europe, northern Africa, and Asia, but now naturalized throughout North America. In its first year, it grows as a low rosette of soft, fuzzy, gray-green leaves. In its second year, it sends up a tall, erect flowering stalk that can reach 6-10 feet, crowned with dense spikes of small, yellow, five-petaled flowers. Mullein thrives in disturbed soils, roadsides, and sunny, open fields.
Parts Used:
-
Leaves
-
Flowers
-
Roots (less commonly)
Active Constituents:
-
Mucilage
-
Saponins
-
Flavonoids
-
Iridoid glycosides
-
Volatile oils
-
Tannins
Energetics:
Taste: Bitter, bland, slightly sweet
Energy: Cooling, moistening
Traditional and Modern Uses:
-
Respiratory Support:
-
Mullein is a classic herb for the lungs, soothing dry, irritated tissues and promoting expectoration in cases of bronchitis, dry cough, and asthma.
-
-
Ear Infections:
-
Mullein flower oil is traditionally used as an ear drop remedy for mild ear infections, especially in children.
-
-
Anti-inflammatory:
-
Mullein has mild anti-inflammatory properties, used topically for joint pain, swollen glands, and skin issues.
-
-
Urinary Tract Support:
-
Mullein root has been used traditionally to support bladder tone and ease incontinence.
-
-
Lymphatic System:
-
Promotes gentle lymphatic drainage and can be used in support of swollen glands.
-
-
Wound Healing:
-
The leaves and flowers have been applied externally for burns, wounds, and skin infections.
-
Preparation and Dosage:
-
Infusion (Tea): 1-2 tsp dried leaves or flowers per cup of hot water; steep 10-15 minutes; strain carefully through fine cloth to remove leaf hairs; drink up to 3 times daily.
-
Tincture: 10-30 drops (0.5-1 ml), 2-3 times daily (1:5 in 40% alcohol).
-
Infused Oil: Flowers infused in olive oil for 2-4 weeks, used for ear drops or topical application.
-
Capsules: 300-500 mg dried herb, 133 times daily.
Recipes:
***
1. Mullein Respiratory Tea:
Ingredients:
-
1 tsp dried mullein leaf
-
1/2 tsp dried licorice root (optional for soothing)
-
1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional for antimicrobial properties)
-
1 cup boiling water
Instructions:
-
Combine herbs in a teapot or infuser.
-
Pour boiling water over herbs.
-
Cover and steep 10-15 minutes.
-
Strain through a fine cloth and drink warm.
2. Mullein Flower Ear Oil:
Ingredients:
-
Fresh or dried mullein flowers
-
Olive oil
-
Optional: garlic cloves
Instructions:
-
Place mullein flowers (and garlic, if using) in a clean glass jar.
-
Cover completely with olive oil.
-
Seal and place in a warm, sunny spot for 2-4 weeks.
-
Strain through cheesecloth and store in a dark glass dropper bottle.
-
Use 2-3 drops in the ear as needed for earaches (never use if the eardrum is perforated).
Safety and Precautions:
-
Generally safe and well-tolerated.
-
Fine hairs on mullein leaves may irritate the throat; always strain infusions thoroughly.
-
Not recommended for use in the ear if there is a ruptured eardrum.
Sustainability and Ethical Considerations:
Mullein is not endangered and grows prolifically in the wild. Harvest responsibly from clean areas away from pollution and allow some plants to go to seed.
Contraindications:
-
None known when used appropriately.
-
As with all herbs, consult a healthcare provider if pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.
Conclusion:
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is a gentle yet effective herb, especially valued for its respiratory and soothing properties. Whether used as tea for coughs or as a topical oil for earaches, mullein remains a trusted remedy in folk and clinical herbal traditions.
References:
-
Wood M. The Earthwise Herbal : A Complete Guide to New World Medicinal Plants. Berkeley, Calif. North Atlantic Books; 2009.
-
Hoffmann D. Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press; 2003.
-
Gladstar R. Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health. North Adams, MA: Storey Publishing; 2008.
-
American Herbal Pharmacopoeia. Accessed April 2025. https://herbal-ahp.org/
-
Herbal Academy. Materia Medica. Accessed April 2025. https://theherbalacademy.com/