Mullein Benefits: A Soothing Herb for the Lungs, Breath and Inner Calm
- Dave
- Jul 23
- 3 min read
If you’re into herbal lung tonics, respiratory rituals, or gentle flower-based remedies, it might be time to get to know mullein and its benefits.
Meet mullein, a tall, sun-loving plant with soft silver leaves and bright yellow flowers that has been used for centuries as a soothing herb for the lungs and respiratory tract. Found throughout Europe, North Africa, and Asia, mullein has earned its reputation as one of nature’s most calming and supportive herbs for the breath.
Both the leaves and flowers are used in herbal medicine, each offering slightly different but complementary effects. Today, mullein is found in teas, tinctures, smoking blends, oils, and herbal steams used to ease congestion, support lung health, and bring clarity to the body and mind.
What Is Mullein
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is a tall biennial plant that grows wild in sunny, open areas and along roadsides. Its large, velvety leaves and towering flower spikes make it easy to identify. Traditionally, mullein has been used in Western and European herbalism for coughs, colds, bronchitis, asthma, and overall lung support.
The leaves are cooling and demulcent, meaning they help soothe inflamed or irritated mucous membranes. The flowers are gentle, slightly sweet, and are often infused in oil for earaches or added to calming herbal blends.
Why You Should Try Mullein
Mullein is a gentle yet powerful herb that supports the breath and calms the body from within
✅ Lung and respiratory supportTraditionally used to ease coughs, asthma, and congestion
✅ Demulcent and anti-inflammatorySoothes irritated tissues in the lungs, throat, and sinuses
✅ Gentle expectorantHelps loosen and move mucus without overstimulation
✅ Nervous system calmThe flowers are known for their soft, relaxing qualities
✅ Herbal smoking or steaming allyUsed as a base in herbal smoking blends or in steam for deep lung cleansing
Whether you live in an urban environment, work with your voice, or are recovering from a cold or smoke exposure, mullein offers soft but steady support for your lungs and overall vitality.
A Herb With Deep Folk Roots
Mullein has a long history in European folk medicine, where it was considered a protector herb often planted near the home. Roman soldiers were said to have dipped its stalks in fat and used them as torches, while traditional herbalists valued the leaves for lung and chest ailments.
In Appalachian and Western herbalism, mullein leaf tea has been a go-to remedy for respiratory congestion and dry, irritated coughs. The flowers, meanwhile, have been used in herbal oils for soothing inflammation in the ears or on the skin.
Its gentle energy and striking presence in the wild have also made it a symbolic plant for clarity, illumination, and strength through stillness.
How to Take Mullein Leaf and Flower Tea
The most traditional way to work with mullein is as a simple herbal tea, often blended with other respiratory herbs such as thyme, licorice root, or peppermint.
How to Make Mullein Tea
You’ll need
1 to 2 teaspoons dried mullein leaf and/or flower
1.5 cups hot water
Optional additions licorice root, marshmallow leaf, ginger or spearmint
Instructions
Place the mullein in a tea infuser or loose in a teapot
Pour hot water (90 to 95°C) over the herbs
Cover and steep for 10 to 15 minutes
Strain through a very fine mesh or cloth to remove any tiny hairs from the leaves
Sip warm, ideally up to three times daily as needed
Pro tip:Use freshly strained tea for a warm gargle or throat rinse during dry coughs or vocal strain. Mullein also pairs well with honey and lemon for a gentle, soothing blend.
Dosing and Safety
Standard dose is 1 to 4 grams of dried leaf and flower daily
Always strain well to remove any fine hairs that may irritate the throat
Generally safe for all ages when properly prepared
Can be combined with other herbs for tailored respiratory support
Not recommended during pregnancy without guidance
Consult a practitioner if you are using mullein alongside prescription respiratory medications
Mullein is a soft, cooling herb and works best when used consistently and thoughtfully
Final Thoughts Mullein Is a Breath of Calm in a Busy World
From the soft leaves to the bright flowers, mullein offers a complete plant remedy for the lungs, breath, and nervous system. It invites you to pause, breathe deeper, and soothe what feels inflamed physically and emotionally.
Whether you need lung support, want to gently cleanse the respiratory system, or are exploring calming tea rituals, mullein is a reliable ally with deep healing roots.
A true gift for anyone living in modern environments, mullein reminds us that breath is healing, and nature always provides support for our most essential rhythms. Mullein benefits
