Mullein Leaf (Dried)

Mullein Leaf  (Verbascum Thapsus)
Mullein leaves are a primary remedy for dry coughs and stuck congestion, acting as an excellent moistening expectorant and gentle demulcent. They help loosen and expel dry mucus, making coughing more productive rather than suppressing it. Mullein is especially good for hard, dry coughs that shake the body. It blends well with herbs like marshmallow (for moisture), New England Aster, and Lobelia, and is generally safe for damper coughs when combined with warming herbs like Osha or Thyme.
 
Smoking mullein changes its properties, making it drying and hot, thus unsuitable for dry coughs; it may help with wetter congestion. Inhaling wisps of smoke is less irritating than direct smoking. Mullein leaf is also used in smoking blends for its even burn, not typically for respiratory issues. Adding an astringent herb gives smoking blends "body."
 
Mullein leaf is also a respected lymphatic herb, used externally as a compress for glandular swelling. A common warning: the fuzzy hairs on the leaves, which gave rise to the folk name "Quaker rouge" due to skin irritation, may also irritate sensitive skin (like when used as "toilet paper") or the throat/GI tract.