Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)

Common Names:
  • Great Mullein
  • Common Mullein
  • Velvet Plant
  • Aaron’s Rod
  • Hag’s Taper
  • Torches
  • Candlewick Plant

Botanical Description:

Mullein is a biennial plant with a tall, erect flower spike that can grow up to 2 meters high. In its first year, it forms a basal rosette of large, woolly, silver-green leaves. In its second year, it sends up a flowering stalk with densely packed yellow flowers. Native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, it grows widely in disturbed soils, roadsides, and open fields.

Equine Use:

  • Respiratory Support: Mullein leaf can be fed dried or steeped in water and offered to horses with chronic coughs, congestion, or inflammatory respiratory conditions.
  • Calming: May be used in calming blends for anxious horses, especially those with respiratory-linked stress.
  • Topical Use: The flowers infused into oil can be used to soothe sore skin or insect bites.
⚠ Cautions: Ensure clean, chemical-free sourcing. Mullein is generally well tolerated, but introduce gradually.

Canine Use:

  • Respiratory Conditions: Dried leaves (well strained when infused) can support dogs with kennel cough or bronchial irritation.
  • Ear Health: Mullein flower oil, often combined with garlic, is traditionally used to ease ear infections (consult vet before use).
  • Anti-inflammatory Use: Occasionally included in herbal anti-inflammatory or calming blends.
⚠ Cautions: Always strain well due to tiny leaf hairs that may irritate mucosa. Use oil in ears only when the eardrum is intact.

UK and Isle of Man Folklore:

  • In British folk tradition, Mullein was believed to ward off evil spirits and was often hung in doorways or used in protective charms.
  • The tall flowering stalks were dipped in wax or tallow and used as torches—hence the nickname "Hag’s Taper".
  • Isle of Man traditions often associated Mullein with faery protection and herbal knowledge passed down through generations of wise women or "herb wives".
  • It was also thought to guide lost souls or travelers, perhaps due to its illuminating use and erect growth.

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Calming

Pain and inflammation

Respiratory

Wellbeing

If you want to try a bundle of herbs for self selection or use in a water buffet click here

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