What is Mullein?
Mullein, scientifically known as Verbascum thapsus, is a hairy biennial plant that thrives in a wide variety of habitats worldwide. Known for its flavorless and smooth properties, mullein has been a favored component of herbal preparations, including those at MOUNTAIN Smokes. The plant has a rich history and has significantly impacted cultures around the globe.
Etymology of Mullein
The word “mullein” has evolved through various languages:
- Proto-Indo-European: “Moldus,” meaning soft or weak.
- New Latin: “Mollis,” describing something soft, supple, flexible, pliant, tender, weak, and delicate to the touch.
- Old French: “Mol.”
- Anglo-Norman: “Moleine.”
- Middle English: “Moleyne.”
- Modern English: “Mullein,” used to describe several Asian and European plants of the genus Verbascum.
Mullein’s Many Names Throughout Time and Culture
Mullein has been known by numerous names, reflecting its diverse uses and cultural significance:
- Jupiter’s Staff: In ancient Rome, named after the sky god Jupiter, symbolizing protection and healing.
- Aaron’s Rod: Named for its tall, erect flowering stem.
- Candlewick Plant or Candleflower: Used by Romans for torches and Greeks for lamp wicks.
- Hag’s Taper: Associated with witches for illumination during incantations.
- Bullock’s Lungwort: Used by stockmen for treating respiratory diseases in cattle.
- Cowboy Toilet Paper: Favored by cowboys for its soft leaves in lieu of toilet paper.
Other Names of Mullein Include:
- Adam’s Flannel
- American Mullein
- Beggar’s Blanket
- Blanket Herb
- Blanket Leaf
- Bouillon Blanc
- Cierge Cotonneux
- Cierge de Notre-Dame
- Clot-Bur
- Cuddy’s Lungs
- Duffle
- European Mullein
- Feltwort
- Fleur de Grand Chandelier
- Fluffweed
- Gidar Tamaku
- Gordolobo
- Hare’s Beard
- Hedge Taper
- Herbe de Saint-Fiacre
- Higtaper
- Molène
- Orange Mullein
- Oreille de Loup
- Our Lady’s Flannel
- Queue de Loup
- Rag Paper
- Shepherd’s Club
- Shepherd’s Staff
- Tabac du Diable
- Torch Weed
- Verbasci Flos
- Wild Ice Leaf
- Woolen, Woolly Mullein
Historical Uses of Mullein
The Puritans
The Puritans brought mullein seeds to America in the late 1630s for medicinal gardens, and the plant quickly spread across the landscape.
Use by Native Americans
Despite being non-native, mullein was swiftly adopted by Native American tribes for various uses:
- Moccasin Linings: The soft leaves were used to line moccasins.
- War Paint Application: Used to apply war paint.
- Tea: Brewed from mullein, though the hairy leaves made it less appetizing.
- Torches and Wicks: Used by Romans and Greeks for torches and lamp wicks.
Cosmetics/Makeup
The Quakers used mullein leaves to bring a rosy hue to their cheeks as a natural alternative to rouge.
Traditional Folk Medicine and Native Medicine
Pedanius Dioscorides
Dioscorides (40-90 AD), a Greek botanist and physician, recommended mullein for pulmonary diseases over 2000 years ago.
Mullein Tea
Multiple cultures steeped mullein in tea to soothe sore throats.
Leaf Poultice
Native Americans used mullein for abscesses, bruises, sprains, rashes, and burns. The Zuni people used powdered mullein root for skin infections.
Smoking Mullein
Mullein was traditionally smoked to treat respiratory concerns. Some cultures used it to treat tuberculosis and as an expectorant.
Indigenous Mexican Cultures
Used mullein for varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and throat irritation.
Smoking Mullein
Mullein is popular in herbal smoking blends for its neutral taste and aroma, fluffy texture, and even burn. It complements a variety of herbs, from hemp to tobacco or cannabis.
Mullein: Superstition, Religion, and Ceremony
Mystical Beliefs
Mullein has been associated with mystical properties and used in various religious or superstitious practices:
- Believed to instill health, courage, and protection.
- Thought to attract love and ward off nightmares.
- Used in baths for bravery and as a ward against enemies.
- Placed in shoes to prevent illness.
- Associated with the element of fire and used in spells involving graveyard dirt.
- In the Victorian Language of Flowers, mullein represents positive traits and good nature.
- Believed to ward off curses and evil spirits.
Mullein – The Perfect Addition for MOUNTAIN Smokes
MOUNTAIN Smokes incorporates mullein for its smooth, consistent burn, and neutral flavor, enhancing all blends without added flavors or aroma. Only the best organically and sustainably grown mullein is used, ensuring the highest quality for a pleasurable smoking experience.
