How to Make Mullein Leaf Tincture at Home - Recipes and Uses

How to Make Mullein Leaf Tincture at Home

Mullein leaf has been used traditionally as a remedy for respiratory ailments like coughs, colds, and bronchitis. Modern herbalists continue using mullein preparations like tinctures to naturally soothe the lungs and mucus membranes. Making your own mullein leaf tincture is an easy and cost-effective way to benefit from mulleins therapeutic effects at home.

What is Mullein?

Mullein, scientifically known as Verbascum thapsus, is a flowering plant native to Europe, Africa and Asia. Its commonly considered a weed in the United States. The woolly-looking mullein plant can grow over 6 feet tall and has large fuzzy leaves and yellow flowers.

Traditional medicine uses mullein leaf tea, extracts, and tinctures as natural treatments for respiratory problems, inflammatory conditions, diarrhea, and fluid retention. Compounds in mullein may help expel mucus, fight bacteria, and reduce swelling. However, more research is still needed on mulleins efficacy and mechanisms.

Benefits of Mullein Tincture

Mullein leaf tincture may offer several natural health benefits when used appropriately. Potential benefits include:

• Soothe irritated throat and cough
• Loosen mucus in lungs and stuffy nose
• Alleviate bronchitis symptoms
• Ease asthma complications
• Reduce inflammation from conditions like arthritis
• Treat ear infections
• Fight certain bacteria that cause respiratory infections
• Act as a mild sedative and relaxant

However, mullein tinctures have not been proven effective through large scale human studies. Work with your doctor to determine if mullein is appropriate as a complementary therapy for your individual health needs.

How to Make Mullein Tincture

Making mullein tincture at home is a simple process. Here is an easy DIY mullein tincture recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 oz. dried mullein leaves and flowers
• 8 oz. vodka or 80-100 proof alcohol
• Clean glass jar with tight fitting lid
• Strainer or cheesecloth
• Dark glass bottles for storing finished tincture

Instructions

1. Fill the glass jar with the dried mullein leaves and flowers. Pour vodka or alcohol over the herbs until they are completely covered by 1-2 inches of liquid. Place lid tightly.
2. Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking gently every day. This allows the alcohol to slowly extract the medicinal compounds from the mullein.
3. After 4-6 weeks, strain the herbs through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer. Squeeze the herbs to get all the liquid out.
4. Transfer the finished mullein tincture liquid into dark glass bottles for storage. Label with contents and date.
5. Store in a cool location away from direct light. Mullein tincture can last for several years when properly stored.

How to Use Mullein Tincture

Mullein leaf tincture can be ingested or applied topically, depending on your particular needs. Typical dosage guidelines include:

Ingestion

• Take 30-40 drops mixed with water or juice, 2-3 times per day.
• Use the dropper built into the tincture bottle to measure the correct dose.
• Best taken with food to minimize potential stomach upset.
• Shake the bottle before each use.

Topical Application

• For ear infections, fill ear canal with drops and let soak for a few minutes before draining.
• To make mullein flower oil, infuse mullein flowers in olive or coconut oil for 4-6 weeks and apply to skin irritations.
• For joint or muscle inflammation, apply tincture directly and massage into skin.
• Always test on a small patch of skin first to check for allergic reaction.

Follow instructions from your healthcare provider for optimal dosage and timing. Report any side effects. Mullein tincture is not recommended for infants or very young children.

Best Practices When Making Mullein Tincture

Use these tips to get the most potency and shelf life out of your homemade mullein leaf tincture:

• Choose young mullein leaves - Older leaves near the base of the plant tend to be tougher and less flavorful.
• Select flowers carefully - Pick mullein flowers that are newly opened and vibrant yellow.
• Dry thoroughly - Leaves and flowers should crumble easily when totally dry. Drying concentrates the active compounds.
• Grind herbs - Breaking leaves and flowers down increases the surface area for efficient extraction.
• Shake jar daily - Agitating the jar helps the alcohol permeate the herb material.
• Strain well - Press herbs firmly to get all the precious tincture liquid out.
• Use alcohol or vodka - The purest possible spirits maximize extraction and preserve the tincture.

Making your own mullein tincture is simple and satisfying. With a quality homemade tincture, you can take advantage of mullein's natural therapeutic benefits.

Recipes for Mullein Leaf Tincture Combinations

Combining mullein leaf with other complementary herbs can enhance the tinctures effects. Here are some popular medicinal mullein tincture blend recipes to try:

Soothing Cough Syrup Tincture

This tincture recipe helps loosen mucus and calm coughs:

• 1 oz. mullein leaf and flowers
• 12 oz. elecampane root
• 12 oz. licorice root
• 14 oz. marshmallow root
• 1 cup vodka or 100 proof alcohol

Follow the standard instructions to prepare mullein tincture. Take 1 tsp up to 3 times daily to relieve cough and soothe throat irritation.

Ear Infection Relief Tincture

To reduce ear infection pain and swelling:

• 1 oz. mullein leaf and flowers
• 12 oz. Saint Johns wort
• 14 oz. garlic cloves
• 1 cup vodka or 100 proof alcohol

After preparing, place 10-15 drops into affected ear canal as needed for relief. Allow to soak before draining.

Sinus and Allergy Tincture

This blend combats nasal congestion and allergies:

• 1 oz. mullein leaf
• 12 oz. elderflower
• 12 oz. goldenrod herb
• 14 oz. grated ginger root
• 1 cup vodka or 100 proof alcohol

Use this tincture internally, taking 25-35 drops in water up to 3 times per day during allergy season or sinus flare-ups.

Muscle and Joint Relief Tincture

Ease swollen, sore muscles and joints topically with:

• 2 oz. mullein flowers and leaves
• 1 oz. arnica flowers
• 12 oz. ginger root
• 1 cup vodka or 100 proof alcohol

Massage diluted tincture into affected areas for natural pain and inflammation relief.

Detoxifying Tea Tincture

For a mild cleansing tea tonic:

• 2 oz. mullein leaf
• 1 oz. dandelion root
• 12 oz. fennel seeds
• 12 oz. cilantro
• 1 cup vodka or 100 proof alcohol

Add 10-15 drops to hot water or tea to support healthy liver function.

Precautions and Side Effects of Mullein Tincture

When used appropriately, mullein tincture is generally considered safe. However, there are some precautions to keep in mind:

• May cause stomach upset, nausea or diarrhea
• Can provoke allergic reaction in some individuals
• Avoid use during pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Not recommended for children under 2 years old
• May interact with certain medications like diabetes drugs, lithium and sedatives

Introduce mullein tincture slowly in small doses and discontinue use if any concerning reactions develop. Talk to your doctor before using mullein if you take prescription medications or have any medical conditions.

Signs of a Reaction

Seek medical care immediately if you experience signs of an allergic reaction such as:

• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of lips, face, tongue or throat
• Dizziness, rapid heartbeat or confusion
• Rash, hives, or itching
• Wheezing or chest tightness

The Bottom Line

With minimal time and effort, you can make mullein tincture at home and harness the medicinal benefits of mullein leaves and flowers. Experiment with different single herb or combination recipes to create mullein tinctures tailored to your wellness needs. Always consult your healthcare provider before using any herbal preparations like mullein tincture.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.