Mullein Leaf (Verbascum Thapsus)
Mullein, also called Great Mullein, is a member of the figwort family that is native to Eurasia and naturalized in North America and Australia. Because the plant is noted for its velvety leaves, it is often called Velvet Dock or Velvet Plant. It is a tall-growing biennial and a common sight in late summer in open pastures and along roadways in the eastern US and Canada, often finding a perch between rocks and in gravel. The plant is easy to recognize—the fuzzy leaves emerge from a center rosette to form a stalk several feet high, from which bright yellow, slipper-like flowers appear.
While the flowers are typically infused in oil or used to produce a natural dye, the collective aerial parts of the plant are tinctured, infused or prepared as tea. Mullein also makes an excellent cosmetic herb because it contains astringent and emollient compounds.
The herb is also known as Candlestick because the ancient Romans made a torch by dipping the long, flower stems in tallow and lighting them. Dried loose mullein leaf is used to make tea and, in combination with other herbs and spices, is also used to make incense.
Origin: Eastern Europe
Plant Part Used: Flowers, leaves
Storage Tips: Keep in a sealed container away from direct sunlight, moisture and extreme heat.
Appearance and Aroma: Leafy with a pleasant scent.
Cosmetic Uses: Infuse in oil for use in soaps, salves, ointments and liniments.
Culinary Uses: Use in teas, alone or with other herbs.
Flavor Profile: Mild and pleasant tasting. Combine with other herbs to enhance the flavor of tea blends.
Aromatherapy: Include the dried herb in incense blends.
Safety: Don’t take large amounts or use this herb long-term. Mullein contains glycyrrhizin compounds.
Before making any changes to your diet you should always consult with your doctor, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or have existing conditions.
This information is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by Canada Health or the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.