Mullein Leaves

A hardy biennial plant with greyish green, almost woolly leaves and yellow flowers, Mullein (Verbascum Thapsus) has a long history of therapeutic use. As far back as Ancient Greece, physician Dioscorides wrote of the plant, mentioning that it had practical use as a folk medicine for treating lung conditions.

According to the taxonomy of Mullein, the plant is considered both an expectorant and demulcent. As an expectorant, Mullein is thought to help the body expel mucus that may settle in the chest, while as a demulcent it may help create an anti-inflammatory coating over mucous membranes. Research also shows that the plant may possess slightly sedative qualities that may assist in settling the lungs.

Brew the leaves on their own for a naturally caffeine-free herbal tea that is light and mellow in character with soft vegetative notes. Or blend the leaves with other herbs like sweet licorice root to help hide the slight lingering astringency of the cup. The possibilities for blending are only limited by your imagination.