3 Ways to Use Mullein - Fresh Leaf Tea, Dry Leaf Tea and Smoking and Harvesting, Drying, and Storage

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How to make mullein tea. Making mullein tea.
In this video I harvest some mullein leaves and dry and store them for storage. Mullein plants have a lot of medicinal uses. Mullein tea for lungs is a common use as well as other respiratory ailments. I use a dehydrator to dry the leaves. Before drying the leaves, I make mullein tea with fresh leaves. I also make mullein tea with dry leaves and also smoke mullein leaves.
Mullein
Scientific name - Verbascum thapsus
Other names - common mullein, woolly mullein or great mullein
Applications - medicinal
Identification:
Mullein plants are fairly distinct in appearance and has a two year growth cycle. During the first year it grows as a basal rosette of densely hairy leaves that are 4 to 15 inches long. The leaves are lance-shaped with round toothed edges or smooth edges.
In the second year, it grows a tall flowering stalk with yellow flowers. The stem can be as much as 5 feet or 2 metres tall. The leaves get progressively smaller going up the stalk and become stalkless at the top near the flowers.
Distribution:
Mullein is Eurasian in origin. Found commonly at low to mid elevations often in gravelly sites, roadsides, fields, and pastures. Found all across Canada and throughout the Pacific Northwest, and widely distributed across North America.
Medicine:
Perhaps one of the most known medicinal uses of mullein is mullein tea for lungs, but there are a lot of other uses. Mullein is well known for its use to treat things like chest colds, asthma, bronchitis, coughs, hot dry respiratory conditions, whooping cough, wheezing, tightness in the chest and/or throat and more.
It has traditionally been used to make medicinal teas. Mullein tea for lungs is a common use to help relive congestion. Chopped dried leaves were also smoked to relieve asthma, spasmodic coughing, fevers, and congestion of the respiratory mucous membranes. The tea works by stimulating the flow of mucus to clear lungs and sinuses.
The list of other conditions different parts of mullein have been used to treat goes on and on. Some notables include earaches, joint pain, irritation of the urinary tract, incontinence, cramps, ulcers, and warts.
Interesting:
Mullein leaves were used as lamp wicks and could also be used as emergency toilet paper could be put in shoes as insoles for sore feet when hiking. The dried flowering stalks were dipped in tallow and used as torches.
Mullein Tea:
Fresh Leaves - Use 2 parts leaves to 32 parts water by weight.
Dry Leaves - Use 1 part leaves to 32 parts water by weight, or use 1-2 tablespoons of dried leaves per cup of water.
Add boiling water to the Mullein leaves, steep for ten minutes, and drink!
Caution!
It contains some things such as tannin, rotenone, and coumarin which are classified as potentially dangerous by the US FDA
Please consume wild plants at your own risk! Consult multiple reliable sources before consuming any wild plants! This video is for information and entertainment only!
References
Kloos, Scott. Pacific Northwest Medicinal Plants. Timber Press, Inc. 2017
MacKinnon, A. Edible and Medicinal Plants of Canada. Lone Pine Media Productions (BC) Ltd. 2014.
Millard, Elizabeth. Backyard Pharmacy: Growing Medicinal Plants in Your Own Yard. Quarto Publishing Group USA Inc. 2015.
Parish, R.; Coupe, R.; and Lloyd, D. Plants of the Inland Northwest and Southern Interior British Columbia. BC Ministry of Forests and Lone Pine Publishing. 2018
Wiles, Briana. Mountain States Medicinal Plants. Timber Press Inc. 2018.
0:00 Okanagan Gardener and Forager
0:47 Mullein - Verbascum thapsus
4:29 1 part fresh leaves to 16 parts water by weight
4:46 Steep for 15 minutes
7:36 1-2 tablespoons of dried leaves/cup
8:03 Steep for 5 minutes
8:58 Store leftovers in fridge for up to 24 hours

[@karenmiller6088]

I heard that the entire plant is edible for use in all the ways mentioned here. I haven't smoked them but I make two gallons of burdock and mullein tea and drink 3-4 cups a day. I drink it because when I come in from working for hours outside in the heat and feel totally drained... chugging a cup of the cold tea feels like it rehydrates me quickly and I feel amazing afterwards. It's an acquired taste but now I crave it. It's really a blessing!❤

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

I think I would really like that tea. I think herbal teas cold are great, and I agree very hydrating. Thanks!

[@tammywhite9229]

Two gallons of blended tea or a gallon of each

[@danastevens9493]

I like your idea...how many teaspoons of each dried plant would you use for a cup or gallon? :)

[@echoravenrider932]

I'm glad to find someone else who smokes it. It feels like the smoke belongs in my lungs. So calming.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

I agree with the calming effect. I'm glad you found me, too! Thanks!

[@elainemartin7141]

Just got a big bag of dried mullein. My adult son has been drinking the tea for several days, and he says he uses his inhaler less often already.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

That's great! I hope he continues to improve!

[@sabinadonofrio8863]

I rarely use my asthma spray. I replaced it with saline nasal spray which I spray in my throat when I get a little symptom. I even vaccumed and had no issues as long as I showered right away

[@jessesmomma6246]

So is there a mullion spray that we can make?

[@Thebearcave1776]

You're forgetting the flowers. Flowers infused in olive oil makes a fantastic ear drop for ear pain. Don't forget about tinctures using leaves and flowers. Thanks for sharing.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Good call! Thank you!

[@shannonboegel7169]

Love this! Thank you!

[@devonbradley4372]

Just remember, don't use any mullein oil or any other oil in an ear in which the eardrum may be perforated. Perforated eardrum means that there is a hole or tear in the eardrum. Otherwise, should be fine.

[@jturtle5318]

You can make syrup with the flowers too. kzbin.info/www/bejne/g6qWiHuNjtFgf6M

[@susanray8359]

You can use the leaves in oil for the ear drops, the flower is not required.

[@earthangel8730]

I contracted RSV from my grandchildren back in January. I had it for 8 miserable weeks. Way worse than Covid. I recuperated by mid March and it came back in mid April! I have Mullein growing all over my 12 acre forested homestead. Several new plants growing right alongside my house! Lucky me. I'll be picking leaves tomorrow to make fresh leaf and dried leaf tea. I abhor smoking of any kind but I imagine there are quick results using that delivery method. I want to make a tincture too but need some Vodka for that process. Mullein is a true gift from Mother Nature.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

I hope it helps and you recover!

[@earthangel8730]

@@OkanaganGardenerandForager it did!

[@heavenshealthyhealingherba8270]

It pleases me to see you promoting the smoke of this healthy healing plant! I add Mugwort and sometimes Coltsfoot leaves to my smoke blend. Lavender flowers, and/ or rasberry leaves are nice to add to a smoke blend too! Nice work here- thank you!

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Thank you so much! Those are some good ideas to try!

[@c.lachellewallace8482]

I did the same thing when I stopped smoking cigarettes and it helped me. It’s been 3 years now since I quit 🎉. Yay me

[@fayee8986]

Thank you for your suggestions I'm sure it would be very helpful we don't have mullet in the South that I know of hope to get some seed route would like to get some started on my property. And of course music from medicinal properties. Thank you most certainly will try it one day LOL s t a y healthy

[@fayee8986]

Use it for medicinal properties❤

[@lawrencelyman3372]

Mullein is an amazing plant! Young greens and flowers, edible, and sometimes choice, the long 2nd year stalks make great bow drill shafts, and, dipped in fat make great torches. The seeds stun fish after being crushed and added to the water. Mullein was commonly prescribed for asthma, both as a tea, and smoked. Amazing plant, a real gift.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Thank you for all the info!

[@nikkijoubert6012]

Where do you find mullein

[@lawrencelyman3372]

@nikki joubert just about anywhere with Disturbed soil. Look it up before you forage, it's almost impossible to misidentify

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

@@nikkijoubert6012 I agree with Lawrence's comment about disturbed soil. I often see it near the edges of things like roads, paths, fences, and things like that.

[@ALCE52]

Could I add some honey to my tea, without it taking away the properties of mullein,?

[@tiffif]

Nice video. I've harvested lots of mullien this year and use it dried for tea and smoke it. I air dry so its about 7 days. For smoking I add dried mint, its great. I find the tea has a bit of vanilla taste. Anyways I love the stuff and the tea is great after a nice hike. 👍

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Thank you! What kind of mint do you use?

[@tiffif]

@@OkanaganGardenerandForager I use spearmint mostly and chocolate mint sometimes. Very relaxing cool taste. Soon I will try my dried lemon balm, , definitely recommend the mint though. ✌

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Awesome! Thank you! I've got mint and lemon balm growing in my yard! Maybe I should give them a try!

[@fayee8986]

Thank you I like the idea of the mint it would be nicer to drink I'm sure. We'll have to try it as soon as we get some down now, we don't have any that I know of

[@fayee8986]

Correction having trouble with my phone dictating LOL we don't have any down south that I know of.

[@cassirae5067]

If your sinuses are all clogged boil some water, throw some fresh or dried leaves in there, and breathe in the steam. Can also put some fresh leaves in the bottom of a hot shower and sit for a while.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Great tips! Thank you!

[@cassirae5067]

@@OkanaganGardenerandForager no problem! We live in Northern California and mullein is all over my property here. Super beneficial plant. I have goats and give them tea diluted in their water whenever they have respiratory issues. Had a baby kid with pneumonia and in addition to antibiotics this really accelerated recovery and eased their congestion and cough. We have a sauna on the property and have used mullein leaves in the water we pour over the coals. The steam on several occasions has also stopped asthma attacks on the spot. For smoking I personally enjoy rolling up a blend of dried mullein, cannabis, fresh ground clove buds, and dried peppermint. During allergy season it's actually a very pleasant form of relief. Make sure cloves are ground well bc they'll pop like a trick cigar lol

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

@@cassirae5067, that's awesome! I think the tea and smoking has helped me recover from some respiratory things. I think it really gets things moving and cleared out! I haven't tried smoking mint, but I've heard it's good. Do you use any particular type of mint?

[@cassirae5067]

@@OkanaganGardenerandForager I like peppermint personally, spearmint tastes a little too sweet for me, dried sage in the mix is nice too. So is Yerba Santa. The combo possibilities are pretty vast lol

[@toribrattain4210]

@@cassirae5067 would you dry the mint too? I have spearmint on the edge of our woods and have been thinking of ways to use it other than making gum and for fun just chewing lol

[@sheilaolson2915]

I just quit smoking. Lungs are full of stuff. Need this to help me get through. Thank you. Sending love and blessing to you

[@vickyrock4778]

Mullen grows all around me by the creek beds and disturbed areas. I’ve been harvesting the leaves and making tea and smoking it. I blend it with my marijuana. That way I feel the effects of both of them and both last a lot longer. I have rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, and this seems to help me quite a bit. I love your videos! The information it’s priceless.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

That's awesome! I'm glad it helps. Thank you very much!

[@timothylongmore7325]

Hows the flavor? Mullein smoke is a little plain. I puff cigars during bug season to keep them away and looking to grow some low t weed to blend for my pipe.

[@stephenmras8519]

I spent the day removing a patch of Mullein from my Montana property. They’re an invasive species and hard to get rid of because the seeds can survive over 100 years. The key is to pull them in the spring of their second year as the stalk makes it easy. The first year Mullein requires some shovel work to loosen the soil. I did two front bucket loads full on the tractor and took them down to the burn pile.

[@esterwyman]

I really appreciate you actually showing how to use Mullein . Thank you 😊

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

You're welcome! Thank you for watching and leaving a comment!

[@Jeremihayes75]

❤

[@belindaharshfield8674]

Well, this is my first year ever knowing about it, and I made tea with the fresh leaves and added Sleepytime tea. I have been doing it for the last three days. I am starting to feel a difference in the inflammation in my body and chest. I got my fiancé to try and he even said within two days he felt a difference, we only picked one stock of it because I didn’t know much about it but we have liked it for the past three days drinking it before we go to bed this morning. We drank another glass going to keep continuing until we feel much better and amazing plants it is .

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

That's awesome! I think plant medicines can really work!

[@lynnedavis4819]

I had some seeds that i sprinkled in a back garden. Went to get some dirt for a potted plant and managed to have stray seeds of Mullen in the pot. What a gift!!!!

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Nice!

[@debrasaints3809]

Thanks to my Mullien plant having a lot of leaves, I was able to get over Covid quite quickly! I added Angeolina, Burdock, and Turmeric. On another brew I added dried elderberries for the little nagging cough I still had.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Awesome! I thought mullein helped clear my lungs, too. Thank you!

[@tryingtoknow8190]

I'm collecting rose hips to dry for teas and hope to also make a syrup. I'll add mullein and your suggestions if I can find them. I have looked for elderberry but haven't found any over the few years. Maybe I have seen one but don't know what to look for and passed it by. Also my city has over 10,000 fruitand nut bearing trees on city property alone and yet food banks won't allow neighborhood gardeners or municipal workers to donate to local food banks. I think it's important to networkwith neighbors and aim for no food waste in our communities. I think there's a way we can run toward a great future in parallel to a system that appears to serve the best interests of the few. Why can't we donate garden and tree bearing fruits, berries, veggies and nuts? Why are ginko biloba considered pungent messes and black walnut a stain upon our city sidewalks?

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Good questions! I'm hoping all of us can get a little more self sufficient and knowledgeable about edible and medicinal plants. There's so much to learn!

[@vickichenault5598]

How did you fix your mullen? I've put it in a crock pot with water cooking it and drinking it. I still have infection in lungs. Spitting up stuff.

[@vickichenault5598]

How did you fix your mullen for your lungs. I could use some help.

[@rwm411]

I like a mix of mullein and wild lettuce to smoke. Straight mullein is harsh to me, while wild lettuce leaves are very smooth smoking.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Interesting! Thank you!

[@kellyrichards1354]

Recently drying, making oils and tinctures, learning about plants and now mullein. I take advantage of sunny days when my car is parked. On a flour sack towel I dry plants on the dash.

[@doricetimko5403]

Great idea

[@violetgentry9041]

Amazing tip, thank you

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Great tip! Thanks!

[@tracycouture3955]

I also use mullein all 3 ways, I find smoking it really brings up mucus fast 👍🌱

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Yes, me too! Thanks!

[@robertfulmer8475]

You can make cough syrup from the flowers , and I have just chewed and eaten the flowers to release mucus from the lungs

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Good tips! Thank you!

[@gerrilondot9038]

Mine is never bitter, I make it dark and strong. I steep it for and hour or more reheating as needed. Never boiling. I brew a gallon at a time, using a cup of packed crushed mullein. It is very mellow with an almost vanilla flavor. I sweeten with stevia. My husband adds orange spice tea to his. We love it!

[@JuniorFarquar]

I sweeten w local E TN honey

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

That sounds great!

[@toribrattain4210]

Someone shared this on a Facebook foraging group and as someone who has a flowering stalk in their Michigan backyard, this was very helpful 😊 thank you sir!

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

That's awesome! I'm glad it was helpful! You're welcome and thank you, too!

[@chocoaddik]

You also can make tincture. I made a batch, and the liquid turned pretty lavender color.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Oh, cool! Thank you!

[@angelapoplar9903]

Do you have a go-to recipe?

[@lyndseyrullman7349]

Yes, I would also love the recipe?

[@dianaglenn3921]

I used fredh and broight to boil. Then dimmerrd till a dark color. Strsined and addrd to my black tea . About equal amounts. Then refrigerated and drsnk as iced tea. Very tasty. We dont add sweetener. But you could.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

That does sound good. Thanks!

[@curlychronicles]

I identified what I thought was lambs ear but it was actually mullein, I’ve never been so happy to be wrong lol I’m drying some now and gonna try the fresh tea as well. Thanks for your video!

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Great find! Thank you, too! I hope it helps,

[@kimmiemamatomany6226]

Lambs ear is another name for mullen.

[@dsoldier9227]

No, Lambs ear is not the same as Mullein, very similar in ways ,but 2 different plants.

[@tombickman9292]

I use my tincture daily.. multiple times ..when making tea i add a spoon of homey and a half juiced lemon...i have cronic emphysema and cronic bronchitis and it has helped me so much my doctor is amazed .

[@jturtle5318]

Don't get impatient when dehydrating herbs. Many have volatile oils that we're trying to preserve, so taking 8 hours is pretty quick. Spread the leaves out and remove stems and they'll dry quick enough.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Good tips! Thank you!

[@idipped2521]

You don’t want to take off the stems when drying. It can become overly desiccated if you dry it too quickly. You want it to be dry but not crumble to dust

[@The_Blessed_Cowboy]

69°f for several hours in the dehydrator

[@ceridwynnhaven6236]

Okanagan?! 😯 Nice dude, good job representing the Okanagan area 😊. I live in Oroville. Really cool to stumble upon a local channel. ✨

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Awesome! Thank you! Hello from up the valley.

[@tryingtoknow8190]

I love Canadian content creators. Glad I found your channel.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

I'm glad you found it, too! Thank you!

[@Pixics]

I just looked this up online and they sell them as extracts, that's cool that you are growing it in your yard. You get it for free.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Yes, the price is right. Thank you!

[@Seek_Him]

Mostly pesticide FREE

[@cheeseymccheese7249]

First i heard of this. It grows wild around my place. I always considered it a weed

[@jaredness4824]

Huh grow in the mountains and in town. I can pick it at work. Crazy

[@idipped2521]

I found it on a trail, uprooted it because it was the only mullein plant there and replanted it indoors, going to try to get it bigger then harvest the leaves because it’s a baby

[@craffte]

What an awesome video. Thanks so much.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

You're welcome! Thank you, too!

[@lukeblackford1677]

I was thinking of trying this myself, now I don’t have to, thanks!

[@greybone777]

❤ from Methow Valley

[@ignoranceisexpensivepresen8790]

Thank you. And you made me laugh a lot..Can't wait to try all of them. Mine just started growing.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Thank you, too! I'm glad you liked it! I hope it goes well when you try!

[@bunnie205555]

Very cute how you described the flavor, lol

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Haha! Thank you! I struggle with describing tastes I think largely because I think almost everything tastes good!

[@dallen4482]

Just pulled some nice looking leaves from my garden & will dehydrate them so save for cold & flu season. Thanks for the tip! I have greatly under appreciated this plant until now!!

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

That's awesome! I hope it works well for you! Thank you!

[@jessemontanye]

Thank you just looking for how to dry and use for both tea and smoking you hit it again thank you ✌️

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Great! You're welcome and thank you, too!

[@l-y-n-n-c]

Awesome! Thanks for the information!!

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

You're welcome! Thank you, too!

[@Cheburashka_420]

You are a very interesting person. Thank you.

[@lisawade7060]

I was so happy to see your site . I lived in Kelowna my whole life ..54 years..until last August and niw I'm in novs scotia ...missing the warm early spring I'm accustomed to . Awesome !

[@fishinghole333]

Great video!

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Thank you!

[@user-qj2fq1rb1i]

I had no idea about this cool easy free for better health . Thank you..😊

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

It's a very useful plant. You're welcome and thank you, too!

[@Loving_Mother04]

Great Information. Thank You

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

You're welcome! Thank you, too!

[@cindylou8264]

I love mullein everything about this plant is amazing ❤❤

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

It's definitely a very useful plant!

[@timothylongmore7325]

I got a cold from my grandkid just before christmas and maybe turned into bronchitis. Got a dry raspy cough and been taking a puff or two of mullein every day. Gets a little better every day. Smoke is soothing but gives me a little "rush" so I puff sparingly. One usually sometimes two puffs and inhale deeply and hold. Never tried the tea but will today. I collected some flower last summer and looking for cough syrup recipe.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

I hope it worked for you! Thank you!

[@harrietpeabody2118]

Thank you!

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

You're welcome! Thank you, too!

[@superj-tv]

Thank you❤

[@stephanielee3881]

I've been wanting some mullein.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

I hope you found some!

[@ncreal333]

Good video!

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Thank you!

[@dwwhat3852]

Good video! Thanks. I have some first year spring Mullein drying out right now. Maybe try some bong hits next time

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

You're welcome and thank you, too!

[@tracycouture3955]

Great video 🌱👍🇨🇦🙏🇺🇸

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Thank you!

[@ValezkaMacDonald]

Thanks for the information on this herb. Lovely chanel new sub

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Thank you! Welcome to the channel!

[@loriesters7960]

Thank you. New subscriber. My grandson and I have harvested this year. I am looking at different way to harvest and preserve. My late parents had this growing on the old home place. Have you ever added sweetener or lemon and honey to the tea? Would love to know. Thank you. Video is informative.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Thank you! I typically don't add sweetener because I like that taste as is, but sometimes I sweeten with maple syrup.

[@mysticfyrefly]

I found there are 3 plants growing in the yard yayyy so I'm gonna dry it and make some tea this winter during the cold season I'm also gonna try smoking it as needed I have a roller etc. I already smoke cigs and make my own.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Nice! Good luck!

[@babaoreally8220]

As is kid in the 50’s,I smoked some of this with a wayward older cousin.We called it Indian tobacco.Can’t remember how bad it was.I can remember getting green on a plug of chewing tobacco he sneaked from his dad,tho.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Interesting! Thank you!

[@barbaramizzi1707]

I am just learning about mullein since last summer and I am going to try smoking the dried leaves when I need to. I also pick the flowers off of the mullien to make cough syrup. It's very easy to make. Basically you just layer mullein flowers and sugar and keep it in a Sunday window for about 3 weeks

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

That's awesome! Does the sugar melt? Thank you!

[@toribrattain4210]

@@OkanaganGardenerandForager I've been told that in that time the sugars turn into a syrup. This coming word of mouth from a foraging group.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

@@toribrattain4210 OK! Thank you!

[@debrasaints3809]

@@OkanaganGardenerandForager yes, it’s like pouring sugar over a chopped white onion! The sugar turns into an allium cough surup.

[@lesliea.m.5392]

Wonder if raw honey would work

[@AFMR0420]

I’ve smoked lavender and amaranth. When the opportunity arises I may try this.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

I think it's worth a try. Thanks!

[@lukedent]

Just had my first cup that I made from a 2 year Mullen plant on the side of the road lol It’s not bad lol smoked a little as well

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Nice! I like the tea. I think it helps quite a bit.

[@staceyswelding]

I have an entire field full of them and want to learn everything I can

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Nice! I hope this video helped!

[@debbiecurtis4021]

I dehydrated mullien last year. I want to gather the seeds next.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Nice! Good luck!

[@stevenwinscher1658]

You should hold the smoke in your lung for a few seconds. For me it is surprisingly soothing for putting smoke into your lungs. I also capsulate it in pill form. I sometime mix it with dried stinging nettles. Thank you for your videos

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

You're welcome! Thank you, too!

[@shakacat3180]

Well'ard Dr Fell, bird 🐦 is mine remember ❤🐈 ❤

[@MarcInCanada]

Thanks very much - I'll try all 3 methods - I've got some respiratory issues. I'll let you know if it seems to help

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

I hope you feel better! Please remember I'm not a doctor, and this isn't medical advice! Thank you, too!

[@Katie-nw4vr]

Hi did you notice any difference at all?

[@TomokoAbe_]

I ordered some Mullein seeds. I am very interested in this due to my sinus problems!

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

I hope it helps!

[@WildwoodCastle]

I recommend allowing the water to reduce to 180/185 degrees before pouring over the leaves...

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Good tip! Thank you!

[@jimgaston9863]

I assume this would be for terpene expression?

[@WildwoodCastle]

@@jimgaston9863 Well.. just the proper English way to brew a good cup of tea... Earl Grey for me.. please... Water boiling (212 deg.) will scald the leaves and make the brew bitter...

[@jimgaston9863]

@@WildwoodCastle lol I thought it might be for added medicinal benefits,thanks.

[@constantineau79]

Thanks for the info ☺ Could you make a video on the other herbs we can smoke please trying to stop the tobaco in my CBD joint for pain 🙃

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

That's a good idea! I might do that. Thank you!

[@krystallynne3293]

youre wonderful

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Thank you so much! That's so nice of you to say!

[@vivianavery1961]

Good Morning love your videos , need to ask you how do you keep the top I’ve your Stove Clean

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Thank you! Most of the time it's just elbow grease, haha! If it gets really bad, we have a little razor blade tool thing we use to scrape off the stuck on stuff. I found them online called an oven scraper. Sometimes I use some cleaning product but only very rarely because we don't like to clean with much other than soap and vinegar. I hope that helps!

[@Damselfly54315]

is it good for salves?

[@marycorzette6562]

That's great! Went and picked some today. And now I know ❤

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Excellent! I hope it helps!

[@marycorzette6562]

@@OkanaganGardenerandForager Thank you

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

You're welcome! Thank you, too!

[@mickeygs5843]

Unrelated, but. The way you talked about smoking it made me think about store bought marijuana, and made me realize they use pesticides on farm grown marijuana for dispensaries. Which is a major cause for concern.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Yes, I agree. It's hard to avoid a lot of that stuff these days. Thank you!

[@annbullock3500]

To make tea does it have to be fresh or can you use dried. I make tea for my frig to drink. But not sure if the leaves have to be fresh

[@stephaniecolburn]

My husband’s mom used to blow her cigarette smoke in his ears when he had earaches as a kid. He had bad bad ear issues when he was little. He’s almost 50 now. So it makes me curious if this was where some would get confused and think any type of smoke blown in an ear would cure it. Rather than just mullein smoke.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

That's interesting. I wonder if it caused problems.

[@ronnie2.803]

Hello? I’m in Japan. I found some moullen there ain’t much around so I put them in a plastic bag an it’s one ear since I di that…is it ok to use them this year and next year? Love your show I just stumbled on!

[@granmabern5283]

Herbs that are dried with no heat last for years in an airtight container in the dark. Heat dried lasts a bit less and is a bit less strong. As long as the herbs don’t crumble to dust when you squish them they are still good.😊

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

I'm not much of a critic for how things taste apparently! I should try to use better descriptors for how things taste. What do you think about mullein tea or smoking mullein?

[@jld0001967]

Tea reminded me of the water that’s left after steaming fresh green beans. Neither tasty, nor offensive - just green. :) First time trying it.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

That's a pretty good description. I like it! Thanks!

[@jennystiglet1231]

Newbie forager here.. Question...I saw another forager that stated mullein should be harvested in the second year after the stems and flowers have shot up? Is that accurate?

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

I've heard and read that it should be from the first year leaves only while others say the second year leaves are fine or maybe preferable. I think realistically it probably doesn't matter as long as the leaves look healthy! I would imagine there are some differences in things like nutritional or medicinal value between first and second year growth, but I also think those differences might be less than you would find from different growing conditions or maybe among different plants.

[@LH-zw7dg]

Haven’t tried mullein…. Yet!

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Although I am not a doctor and not offering medical advice, I do understand that a lot of people use mullein and find some relief! Thank you!

[@daysensouth7325]

Your descriptions have me laughing lol

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Oh, good! Haha!

[@ReWyldOutdoors]

I dont find much Great Mullein in my area, i do find a lot of Twiggy Mullein in my area tough, will that work the same?

[@forsalebymb]

To smoke it I wonder if you can use a one hitter. Maybe use coffee grinder to powder up and put through screen to get any big pieces if left. I would worry about the tiny fibers of mullein that you don't want in your lungs and that's why when you strain it for tea you also use like a flour cloth to catch the fibers. Maybe just roll it like a joint.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

I've only smoked it in a pipe myself, but I think lots of people smoke it lots of different ways. Seems to me like it's worth a try!

[@idipped2521]

I would vaporize it and inhalfe through a coffee filter to not get the fibers. You would only get the plant

[@nealmcbaggins127]

It will also help you sleep!

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Yes, good call! Thanks!

[@mathewdennis4964]

When you put them in the dehydrator you said they where cleaned. How did you clean them?

[@B3hoopz]

I have some dried mullien a friend gave me if i wanna smoke it how to in a pipe or can i roll up like a joint or a blunt and as far as tea do i just out in brewer

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

I think you could in a pipe or rolling would be fine. I'd say however you want to do it would work. Good luck! Thank you!

[@loraleewellington9064]

I wonder if you can get the same benefits from inhaling the steam. I bet it would really be great for the lungs!

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

I think it would work but just be a milder effect. I think it's worth a try! Thank you!

[@jimgaston9863]

I think it might work great with a vaporizer

[@witcherwoo8938]

, can you tell me what temp setting to use on the dehydrator please?

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

I set mine very low I think on the lowest setting.

[@julianasabina1882]

I don't have a dehydrator but have a convection oven. Could I use that to dehydrate mullen?

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

I've heard this can be done. I haven't tried it myself. I think it might take some tweaking and adjusting to get it right, but I'm confident you could do it. Good luck!

[@julianasabina1882]

Thanks!@@OkanaganGardenerandForager

[@emmalee478]

I think your description for every tea is fresh. Which herbal tea is your favourite so far?

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

So far I think I like burdock tea the best! I'll try to be more descriptive with my taste testing in the future!

[@caroleyre9144]

⁠ I’m drinking a Dandelion & Burdock…but a cold drink…and from the shop lol…Francis Hartridge …the Hartridge family coat of arms was first documented in 1363 …it’s all Thales healthy Dandelions and Burdock lol. Some of my lunch was grown in our Garden though…Lettuce 🥬and Tomatoes 🍅 an egg and half an orange from our Market and a cup of Nettle Tea four children also from the Garden lol. I made Pine 🌲 Needle Tea after the Winter from our Christmas Tree. I was two day detoxing the change of season chills lol. Worked a treat. I love having a Garden and being able to grow it’s my dream come true …we’re in Britain so it’s only a small Garden but we’re very Grateful this past 7 years. We did have a Garden before for 25 years before this one …but we had a trampoline a park for the children ..we even had a water slide 🛝 it was great days lol I love your Garden and your video Thankyou so much. I love Dhanu’s Irish Herb Garden too a lovely couple in Ireland. And my friends Grapes in Ireland 🍇 a good yield in the third year he planed them. We planted 4 plants last year..they’re growing well in the little Greenhouse with Lettuce, Tomatoes, Beetroot and Carrots. We also have Cherries…my Husband planted 20 plants 🌱 in November 2019 and cultivating our Blackberry Bush…well trying to. Lol I think it’s Mullien we have growing naturally wher we live…we’re very lucky we live next to the Bluebell Woods…beautiful plants all plants and trees and Bees on the Honeysuckle and Fuschia all are beautiful. Thankyou. 🍒🥬🍅🫐🥕🍇❤️🌻🌹☘️

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

@@caroleyre9144 it definitely sounds like you are fortunate! It sounds beautiful!

[@caroleyre9144]

I’ve made Pine Needle it’s lovely and did the trick and Nettle Tea 🫖 I think I might get a teapot that sits on the stove like my Granny and Nana lol …the Herbal Teas also a lovely aroma. Reminds me of the book Carrie’s War…one of my favourites when I was a child…about child evacuees from London to Wales there was a lovely lady who made hot herbal teas and cooked everything home made…her name was Hepzibah …we live in Hampshire quite near London but more in the countryside now. We lived in the city for 25 years for our jobs then they moved our jobs anyway lol.I’m reading David Ickes book atm though. Very interesting also. Happy Growing. 🍒🥬🍅🫐🥕🍇

[@joyannkjb4l250]

Hi, Thank you for this video!! Out of the blue, a Mullein popped up right in the middle of my front lawn!! @3:45 It's just like your smaller ones. QUESTION: I can't leave it where it is or it'll get mowed down, it's in a most curious spot lol I don't know if it'll survive moving it to another location in my yard. Do you have any helpful tips or suggestions? I was SO happy when it popped up and I don't want it to die🤞🙏🤷 Thanks for any response!

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Thank you, too! I think if you are going to try to transplant mullein, try to do it when it's cool and ideally rainy. Also do it in the evening after it's cooled off. After transplanting try to keep it well watered. Hopefully it will survive!

[@bluegreenworld333]

It seeds well, maybe you'll be able to catch some...

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

@bluegreenworld333 yes, that's another good way!

[@caroleyre9144]

We finally had one pop up in our Garden the Council Man did mow them down …one he left in a right mess…I tried to save…but he did leave the one that’s the other side of oyr fence but nxt to our Fuschia …luckily for him lol…there is a Green at the side of us…which the Council here own…this is our house though…might aswell give it to us …we look after it all anyway lol …it’s good the Council don’tcut the grass until the summer not spring now though. Much better for the Wildlife. And for us. Lol little Squirrel visited today also. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@mikeconnery4652]

I think to smoke it successfully you should light it with a long dry twig. Or maybe a stalk of some sort.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

You're probably right that would be a healthier way to do it. Thank you!

[@dianeibsen5994]

Hi thank you for the video on Mullin. I'm a big fan of herbs and herbalism. Can I ask how did you end up in Okanagan? my mom used to live up there. Did you go to herbal school? or are you self trained.

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

I was born and raised in the Okanagan. I've moved a few times and lived in some other places, but we made our way back home! I have a degree in biology, but that's about it as far as formal herbal training goes. I read a lot of books and do my own reseach on the topics though. Thank you!

[@dianeibsen5994]

@@OkanaganGardenerandForager oh! Lucky you!

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

@@dianeibsen5994 I think so!

[@Fruitcupper]

10:50 POV: Its your friends first time taking a hit 🤣🤙

[@natio333.]

I have been smoking mullein for about 6 mths, helped 2ith a cough I couldn't get rid of. (

[@evelyncurtis9584]

I was thinking to mix the leaves with some other loose leaf teas if i don't like it alone. I don't actually use any sweeteners in my teas. I like them as they are typically. Do you have thoughts on this?

[@tracyasposito488]

It reminds me of green tea

[@brentteague910]

what’s the reason(s) for leaves still being moist, rather than all dried up for smoking?

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

I would say I think they would be better fully dried mainly for storage so they don't spoil while stored, and also, it would burn better fully dried. Thank you!

[@bryanmurillo8546]

Can you smoke just the leaves or can you smoke the flowers as well can anyone give me some info

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

I don't think the flowers are commonly smoked, but some others might have some experience with that.

[@veralatkiewiczkrull5211]

What about the roots?

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

The roots also have uses. You could use them to make a tea or tincture that can help relieve joint pain. Thank you!

[@MayflowerBA9928]

Can you boil the leaves that have not been dried? Is it useful that way?

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Some people boil the leaves, or pour boiling water over the leaves, and breathe in the steam. I think that can be pretty effective, but I haven't tried it myself. I often make tea from the fresh leaves, and I think it's useful.

[@bracoop2]

Is there any buzz from smoking the Mullein?

[@feralcatflute]

Do you know if burning it like incense and inhaling the smoke would have the same effect? Or is that kind of like inhaling the smoke from what someone else is smoking

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

Some people just put it in some boiled water and breathe in the steam and have a good effect from that. I'd say it's really hard to know and there are a lot of variables involved. I would think it might be worth a try to see how it goes, and I think burning it like incense would be fairly gentle. I would also say to be very careful and don't just take advice from me, please!

[@angelalewis9693]

My daughter was having a severe asthma attack she is not a smoker so I took a pinch of the dried leaves placed in a glass bowl lit the leaves and had her breathe the smoke her asthma attack stopped instantly. Hours later she told me it worked when her inhalers and breathing treatments didn't

[@BL0419]

We are using mullein for one of our horses who has an asthma type condition. I’m curious if a tincture would be stronger or mullein tea?

[@OkanaganGardenerandForager]

I would say a tincture is stronger or more concentrated.

[@BL0419]

@@OkanaganGardenerandForager Thank you. :)