A simple mullein recipe that combines mullein leaf, glycerin, and water to create a robust and ingestible respiratory remedy. Mullein promotes respiratory health and reduces inflammation, making this tincture beneficial for just about every respiratory issue under the sun.
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When I first started my herbalism journey, as much as I wanted to, I decided not to experiment with every herb under the sun. People often buy popular herbs they see others talking about because they want an entire apothecary despite not actually needing all the herbs.
Personally, I took a different approach. When I started my herbalism journey, I decided to focus on a specific ailment and find herbs that benefited that ailment. For me, that was lung-supporting herbs like mullein.
I chose lung-supporting herbs because I am asthmatic. My dad is also an asthmatic who suffers from COPD. Also, post-COVID, my husband and I have struggled with respiratory distress, so why not make our own remedies? I could support three people with one tincture – yes, please!
If you’ve read my mullein herbal profile, you know in ancient times, mullein was used for lighting torches and making candle wicks. But today, it is used as a natural health remedy worldwide. Mullein has several active compounds that give it such great healing properties, including:
Antibacterial properties
Antiviral properties
Anti-inflammatory properties
May promote respiratory health
Astringent properties
Skin-soothing properties
Anticancer properties
As time passes and I become more comfortable making herbal preparations, I hope to add other lung-supporting herbs like marshmallow root, peppermint, and thyme. Until then, this simple mullein tincture recipe is sufficient and effective, so let’s get to it.
⚠️ Warning: The Holistic Hipppie is not a functional medicine practitioner. The FDA has not evaluated these statements. This content is not medical advice and should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure, or replace medical guidance. The Holistic Hipppie assumes no liability for the application of the information discussed.
Homemade Mullein Tincture
What You'll Need:
½ - ⅔ cup mullein (I use Frontier Co-Op's Organic Dried Mullein)
1 cup vegetable glycerin (I use NV's Organic Vegetable Glycerin)
1 cup filtered water (I filter my water with a Countertop Reverse Osmosis Water Dispenser)
2 mason jars (I recommend a 16 oz. and 32 oz. Ball mason jar)
Directions:
Step 1: Gather ½ cup of dried or ¾ cup of fresh mullein and chop it up before adding it to the 32 oz. mason jar.
Step 2: In the 16 oz. mason jar, add 1 cup each of filtered water and glycerin. Put the lid on and shake the jar to combine well before pouring the mixture over the mullein.
Step 3: Let steep for 4-6 weeks in a cool, dark cabinet OR fill a pot with water, place the jar in the water (ensure the water is covering the contents of the jar), and simmer for 2-3 hours.
Optional: If you simmered the tincture, safely remove the mason jar from the water with a canning jar lifter.
Step 4: After simmering or steeping, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer covered with an unbleached coffee filter.
Optional: Use a French press to extract the remaining liquid in the herbs. If you made 8 ounces, this step may be necessary to extract the liquid from the herbs.
Step 5: Transfer to a dark-colored, glass, airtight container for long-term storage. I use amber glass dropper tincture bottles.
Usage & Storage: Take 10-20 drops (1/8-1/4 tsp) 2-3 times daily. I have even used this for my dog's reoccurring UTIs. This tincture will last about two years when stored in a cool, dark place. If you notice visible mold at the top, it has gone bad.
Have you ever made a mullein tincture?
