A few years ago, during a particularly harsh winter, I stumbled upon the wonder of mullein tincture. My grandmother, a firm believer in herbal remedies, introduced me to this soothing elixir. Not only did it ease my stubborn cough, but it also sparked a newfound appreciation for the power of natural remedies. Mullein tincture isn’t just a recipe—it’s a time-tested remedy that has been cherished for generations. Whether you’re battling seasonal discomfort or simply seeking a holistic approach to wellness, this recipe is your go-to.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through a comprehensive, foolproof method to make your own mullein tincture, address common pitfalls, and share variations to tailor it to your needs.
Why You’ll Love This Mullein Tincture Recipe?
- Natural and Affordable: Say goodbye to expensive store-bought remedies.
- Highly Effective: Mullein is renowned for its ability to support respiratory health.
- Customizable: With just a few ingredient tweaks, you can personalize it to suit your preferences.
What is Mullein Tincture?
Mullein tincture is a concentrated herbal extract made from the leaves or flowers of the mullein plant (Verbascum thapsus), steeped in alcohol or glycerin. It has been used for centuries to alleviate respiratory issues, reduce inflammation, and support overall wellness.
When I first started using mullein tincture for seasonal coughs, I noticed how quickly it soothed my chest and helped me breathe easier. But over time, I realized that pairing it with a warm, herb-packed immunity tea created a powerful daily ritual — not just for recovery, but for prevention. While the tincture targets the lungs directly, the tea supports your whole system with ingredients like ginger, echinacea, and turmeric. Together, they make a simple, natural combo for staying well all year round.
Ingredients and Equipment
Before diving in, gather the following essentials:
Ingredients for Mullein Tincture
- Fresh or dried mullein leaves/flowers (organic is best) – about 1 cup if fresh, ½ cup if dried
- High-proof alcohol (vodka or brandy, 80-proof or higher) – enough to fully cover the herb
- Optional: Raw honey for a touch of sweetness
Equipment
- Clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid (16 oz size works well)
- Cheesecloth or fine strainer
- Dark glass dropper bottles for storage
- Labels for identification
How to Make Mullein Tincture?
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- If using fresh mullein, gently rinse and pat dry to remove dirt.
- Tear or chop the leaves/flowers into smaller pieces to increase surface area for extraction.
2. Combine in the Jar
- Place the mullein into your glass jar, filling it about halfway.
- Pour the alcohol over the herb, ensuring it’s completely submerged.
Tip: Leave about an inch of space at the top to allow for shaking.
3. Seal and Shake
- Tightly seal the jar and shake it well.
- Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks. Shake it daily to encourage the extraction process.
4. Strain and Bottle
- After 4-6 weeks, strain the tincture through cheesecloth into a clean bowl.
- Transfer the liquid to dark glass dropper bottles. Label with the date and contents.
Variations
- Alcohol-Free Option: Use glycerin instead of alcohol for a kid-friendly tincture.
- Honey-Infused Tincture: Add a teaspoon of raw honey to each dropper bottle for a soothing, slightly sweet touch.
How to Use Mullein Tincture?
- For Respiratory Support: Take 1-2 dropperfuls (about 30-40 drops) up to 3 times a day.
- For General Wellness: Add a few drops to tea or water as a daily tonic.
Nutritional Benefits of Mullein
Here’s what makes mullein so special:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Protects cells from damage.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: Helps reduce swelling and irritation.
- Natural Expectorant: Supports clearing mucus from the respiratory system.
Final Thoughts
Making your own mullein tincture is a rewarding way to embrace natural remedies. With its rich history and powerful benefits, it’s no wonder mullein has stood the test of time. Whether you’re new to herbal tinctures or a seasoned pro, this recipe offers everything you need for success.
Take a moment to prepare this simple remedy today—you won’t regret it!
Mullein Tincture Recipe: A Natural Remedy Worth Discovering
Mullein tincture is a natural herbal extract made from the leaves or flowers of the Verbascum thapsus plant, traditionally used to support respiratory health. Known for its soothing effects on the lungs, it’s often used to relieve coughs, congestion, and inflammation. This easy-to-make tincture is a must-have for any natural medicine cabinet.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
If using fresh mullein, gently rinse and pat dry to remove dirt.
-
Tear or chop the leaves/flowers into smaller pieces to increase surface area for extraction.
-
Place the mullein into your glass jar, filling it about halfway.
-
Pour the alcohol over the herb, ensuring it’s completely submerged.Tip: Leave about an inch of space at the top to allow for shaking.
-
Tightly seal the jar and shake it well.
-
Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks. Shake it daily to encourage the extraction process.
-
After 4-6 weeks, strain the tincture through cheesecloth into a clean bowl.
-
Transfer the liquid to dark glass dropper bottles. Label with the date and contents.
