A few winters ago, I found myself constantly battling a nagging cough that wouldn’t go away. I had tried all the usual herbal teas and balms, but nothing quite hit the spot.

Having asthma, I struggle with breathing a lot and after I get sick, I get a cough that will linger forever it feels like. I decided to go through my herbal books and finally found my solution: mullein.

I’d read about its gentle support for the lungs, and once I started using it regularly, especially in tincture form, I noticed a shift.

Breathing felt easier, and that persistent tightness in my chest finally loosened. Now, a mullein tincture is something I always keep stocked in my herbal cabinet.

Whether you’re new to herbs or looking for a reliable lung support remedy, this simple DIY mullein tincture is a wonderful place to start.

Why Mullein? Healing Benefits and Uses

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is one of those herbs that feels like a quiet, steady friend, always there when you need it. It’s best known for its support of the respiratory system.

Herbalists often turn to it for dry coughs, bronchial irritation, or any time the lungs need a little extra care.

Here’s what makes mullein so special:

Respiratory support: Mullein helps soothe the mucous membranes of the lungs, making it helpful for dry, irritated coughs.
Anti-inflammatory properties: It may reduce inflammation in the throat and chest, offering gentle relief from discomfort.
Expectorant action: It can help loosen mucus, making it easier to clear out of the lungs.
Gentle and safe: Mullein is generally considered a safe herb for most people, including children when properly diluted. However, always consult your healthcare provider if you have any medical conditions or concerns.

Pin This Post For Later:

Some of these links are affiliate links meaning if you purchase from these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Everything I share is my own opinions and things I personally use and love. You can learn more by reviewing my disclosure. As an Amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Simple Mullein Tincture Recipe (Alcohol or Glycerin-Based)

This recipe makes around 4 to 6 ounces and can be made with either alcohol or a vegetable glycerin base, depending on your preference.

Ingredients:

1/3 cup dried mullein leaf
About 1 cup of at least 80-proof vodka or ¾ cup vegetable glycerin + ¼ cup water (for an alcohol-free option)
4 oz amber glass bottle for storage

Instructions:

Add your mullein to a clean glass jar.

Pour in your alcohol or glycerin mixture until the herb is completely covered. Make sure no mullein is exposed to air, as this can lead to spoilage.

Place a piece of parchment paper between the lid and jar to prevent corrosion.

Label your jar with the date and ingredients.

Let the mixture sit for 6 to 8 weeks, shaking gently every day.

After the extraction period, strain through cheesecloth and pour into your amber glass bottle.

Store in a cool, dark place and enjoy as needed.

Notes:

If you prefer to avoid alcohol, the glycerin version is a great alternative, especially for kids. Just remember, glycerin tinctures don’t last quite as long as alcohol-based ones, about 1 to 2 years, compared to 3 to 5 years. This is what I personally use though!

How I Use This in My Own Home

When cold season hits, I keep this tincture close by. I take a few drops especially before bed, to help calm my dry coughing spells.

It’s also one of the first things I reach for when anyone in our family starts showing early signs of chest congestion.

Mullein’s gentle action is why it’s become one of my go-to lung herbs over the years. I’ve even taking it daily for a month to help with my asthma symptoms!

Mullein Tincture

No Ratings

Materials

1/3 cup dried mullein leaf
About 1 cup of at least 80-proof vodka or ¾ cup vegetable glycerin + ¼ cup water (for an alcohol-free option)
4 oz amber glass bottle for storage

Instructions

Add your mullein to a clean glass jar.
Pour in your alcohol or glycerin mixture until the herb is completely covered. Make sure no mullein is exposed to air, as this can lead to spoilage.
Place a piece of parchment paper between the lid and jar to prevent corrosion.
Label your jar with the date and ingredients.
Let the mixture sit for 6 to 8 weeks, shaking gently every day.
After the extraction period, strain through cheesecloth and pour into your amber glass bottle.
Store in a cool, dark place and enjoy as needed.

Notes

If you prefer to avoid alcohol, the glycerin version is a great alternative, especially for kids. Just remember, glycerin tinctures don’t last quite as long as alcohol-based ones, about 1 to 2 years, compared to 3 to 5 years. This is what I personally use though!

Final Thoughts

Making your own herbal remedies doesn’t have to be overwhelming! This mullein tincture is a beautiful, beginner-friendly way to explore herbal medicine and support your respiratory health naturally.

With each step, you’re learning, growing, and building a deeper connection to the healing gifts of plants.