This easy mullein tincture step by step tutorial teaches you how to make a natural herbal remedy for respiratory support. We use a mullein tincture during allergy season and also in cold and flu season for additional support.

Mullein Tincture for Respiratory Support

Mullein is one of those time honored herbs that seems to bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and modern wellness. With its tall, sun-kissed stalks and velvety leaves, it has been used in traditional medicine for centuries for its ability to support respiratory health and soothe inflammation.

Today, it’s enjoying a well-deserved revival, especially in tincture form—a concentrated preparation that delivers the herb’s benefits in a convenient and potent way.

What is Mullein?

Mullein’s medicinal use dates back to ancient Rome and Greece, where it was praised as a gentle yet effective remedy for coughs, sore throats, and lung ailments. In folk medicine across Europe and North America, it was a go-to herb for bronchitis, asthma, and even earaches.

The plant’s soft leaves and vibrant yellow flowers earned it nicknames like “flannel leaf” and “torch plant,” the latter due to its dried stalks being used as makeshift torches.

While Verbascum thapsus is the most commonly used medicinal species, other varieties such as Verbascum densiflorum and Verbascum phlomoides also offer therapeutic benefits.

For tincture-making, the leaves and flowers of V. thapsus are preferred for their high mucilage content and respiratory-soothing compounds.

Homemade Mullein Tincture Benefits

The most common use is mullein tincture for respiratory health. Its mucilaginous compounds coat irritated airways, helping to calm coughing fits, loosen mucus, and ease breathing. It’s often used in herbal formulas for colds, flu, and bronchitis.

Beyond the respiratory tract, mullein’s anti-inflammatory qualities make it useful for soothing irritated tissues, whether in the throat, skin, or digestive system.

Mullein-infused oil has been used for generations to help alleviate earaches, often paired with garlic oil for added antimicrobial benefits.

Traditionally, mullein has been used for joint pain, urinary tract discomfort, and even topical wound care, though these uses are less well studied.

What is a Tincture?

A tincture is a liquid extract made by steeping plant material in alcohol (or sometimes glycerin or vinegar). The alcohol draws out the plant’s beneficial compounds and preserves them for long-term use.

Tinctures are highly concentrated, easy to store, and quick to absorb—just a few drops under the tongue or in water can deliver a therapeutic dose.

While teas and infusions extract compounds with hot water, tinctures use alcohol, which preserves a broader spectrum of phytochemicals, including those not water-soluble.

The best part? It's easy to learn how to make mullein tincture at home with just two ingredients, but you'll need to wait 6 to 8 weeks to let it steep.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Mullein Tincture

Dried Mullein Leaves. I recommend using dried mullein leaf because is often easier to source and store. Ensure it’s clean, vibrant in color, and free from mold.
Alcohol. A high-proof, food-grade alcohol like vodka or brandy is ideal. The strength should be at least 40% alcohol (80 proof) to ensure proper extraction and preservation. In Ohio, I have to get the high proof vodka at a state liquor store. You want a mid grade vodka like Sky.
Herbs. Other herbs like thyme or licorice root can be added to complement mullein’s respiratory support.

Supplies Checklist

Glass jar with a lid
Measuring cup
Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
Dark glass dropper bottles protect the tincture from light and make dosing easy.

Dried Mullein Tincture Instructions

Step #1

Place the dried mullein in a glass jar.

Step #2

Fill the jar with alcohol. Make sure to cover all of the leaves so the leaves don't get moldy as it sits.

Step #3

Add a lid and let sit for 6 to 8 weeks. Shake gently daily.

Step #4

Strain with a cheesecloth. Put into your tincture jar and enjoy.

Tips for Mullein Tincture

Store the infusion jar and finished product away from direct sunlight and heat.
You can add more herbs for their benefits.
Make sure the alcohol completely covers the dried herbs.
Fresh herbs are more likely to grow mold; this is why I recommend dried herbs.

How to Use Mullein Tincture

A typical dose is 1–2 droppers (about 30–60 drops) up to three times daily.

Place drops under the tongue for rapid absorption, or dilute in water or tea for a gentler experience.

Safety and Precautions

Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and those with known allergies to mullein, should avoid use without guidance from a healthcare provider.

Mullein is generally well tolerated, though rare cases of skin or throat irritation have been reported.

Consult a qualified practitioner before combining with prescription medications, especially those affecting the lungs or inflammation.

When stored in a cool, dark place, tinctures can last five years or more without losing potency.

Other Ways to Use Mullein

Steep dried leaves in hot water for a soothing, caffeine-free brew that eases the throat and chest.
A gentle oil infusion can be used topically (never directly in the ear canal without professional advice).
Add mullein to a bowl of hot water, cover your head with a towel, and inhale the warm vapor to loosen mucus.

Want to make it easy to make your own mullein tincture at home? We have a Breathe tincture kit that has the herbs premeasured. It has mullein, marshmallow root, wild cherry bark, and calendula. You just need a mason jar, alcohol, and a dropper bottle to make your own tincture.

We also have the following herbal kits available: