Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) has been used as a lung tonic since Dioscorides recorded its use over 2,000 years ago. Its lung-healing properties are attributed to its expectorant and demulcent properties, which are both soothing to the mucous membranes in the lungs and throat, helping to expel any excess mucus. It is also said to have anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the lungs and reduce irritation caused by harsher herbs in smoking blends.
Mullein smoke is soft and calming, with a light herbal flavor and subtle earthy undertones. Its smoke thickens and adds a smoothness to herbal smoke blends, easing the harshness of other herbs in a smoker’s mixture. It is considered the herb of choice for blending into a tobacco blend, as it offers a gentle, non-toxic smoke that helps to cut down on harshness.
Using mullein as the base for an herbal smoke blend is a great way to enjoy all of the benefits that this wonderful plant has to offer. It is completely legal to smoke mullein, and it will help to create a smooth smoke blend that can be enjoyed for a long time. It is important to rub the dried mullein leaves together gently before smoking them, as this will help to fluff up the leaves and make them easier to burn and smolder evenly.
You can add any other herbs that you would like to your mullein tobacco blend, although herbs that are supportive of the lungs and respiratory system work well with mullein. For example, herbs like fennel and horehound are both expectorants and can be smoked with mullein to help clear the lungs of mucus, which can cause coughing.