If you’re someone who loves natural remedies and homemade herbal oils, then mullein oil is a must-try in your DIY wellness arsenal. Derived from the beautiful mullein plant, this oil is renowned for its soothing properties, particularly for earaches, respiratory issues, and skin irritations.
Making mullein oil at home isn’t just rewarding—it’s also simple and allows you to control the quality and potency of the final product. Plus, the process connects you with nature in a meaningful way, turning fresh mullein leaves and flowers into a concentrated oil that’s packed with healing benefits.
Whether you’re interested in natural skincare or want a gentle herbal remedy to keep in your medicine cabinet, this mullein oil recipe will guide you step-by-step. Let’s dive into the details so you can easily make your own batch and enjoy all the wonderful benefits this oil offers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This mullein oil recipe is perfect for anyone seeking a natural, homemade alternative to commercial herbal oils. It’s crafted with fresh mullein leaves and flowers gently infused in a carrier oil, preserving the plant’s healing properties.
You’ll love how simple the process is, requiring minimal ingredients and equipment but yielding a potent oil that can soothe ear infections, calm inflamed skin, and even help with respiratory congestion.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re using it as an ear oil, massage oil, or skin treatment, mullein oil offers gentle yet effective relief without harsh chemicals.
Plus, making it yourself ensures it’s 100% natural and free from preservatives or additives.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh mullein leaves and flowers (washed and dried)
- 1 cup carrier oil (such as olive oil, almond oil, or jojoba oil)
- Glass jar with lid (for infusion)
- Cheesecloth or fine strainer (for filtering)
Equipment
- Glass jar or bottle (preferably dark-colored to protect from light)
- Double boiler or slow cooker (for gentle heating)
- Measuring cups
- Funnel (optional, for bottling)
- Dark glass storage bottles (for storing the finished oil)
Instructions
- Prepare the mullein: Gently rinse the fresh mullein leaves and flowers to remove any dirt or insects. Pat them dry completely using a clean towel or allow them to air dry. Moisture can cause mold during infusion, so ensure they are dry.
- Fill the jar: Place the dried mullein leaves and flowers loosely into your glass jar, filling it about halfway. Do not pack too tightly as the oil needs to circulate around the plant material.
- Add carrier oil: Pour your chosen carrier oil over the mullein until it fully covers the plant material by at least an inch. This helps prevent any air pockets that could spoil the infusion.
- Infuse the oil: Seal the jar tightly and place it in a warm spot with indirect sunlight or use a double boiler method. If using a double boiler or slow cooker, gently heat the jar or transfer the mixture to a heat-safe container and keep the temperature around 100°F to 120°F (38°C to 49°C) for 4–6 hours. Avoid overheating to preserve the plant’s beneficial properties.
- Strain the oil: After infusion, strain the oil through cheesecloth or a fine strainer into a clean bowl. Squeeze the cheesecloth gently to extract as much oil as possible without forcing sediment through.
- Bottle the oil: Using a funnel, pour the strained mullein oil into dark glass bottles for storage. Seal tightly and label with the date.
- Store properly: Keep your mullein oil in a cool, dark place. It should last for up to 6 months. If you notice any off smells or cloudiness, discard it.
Tips & Variations
“Patience is key when making herbal infusions. Allowing the oil to infuse slowly retains the healing properties of mullein without overheating the delicate compounds.”
- Use dried mullein: If fresh leaves aren’t available, dried mullein works well. Use about ½ cup dried mullein to 1 cup carrier oil, and infuse for 2–3 weeks in a sunny window.
- Choose your carrier oil wisely: Olive oil is traditional and nourishing, but if you prefer a lighter oil, try sweet almond or jojoba oil for a less greasy texture.
- Add complementary herbs: For extra benefits, add herbs like lavender or calendula to your infusion for a soothing blend.
- Cold infusion: For a gentler method, place the jar in a warm spot for 4–6 weeks, shaking it gently every few days.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per tablespoon | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin A | 150 IU | Supports skin health and vision |
| Vitamin E | 2 mg | Antioxidant, protects skin cells |
| Fatty acids | 10 g | Moisturizes and nourishes skin |
| Phytochemicals (flavonoids, saponins) | Trace | Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects |
Serving Suggestions
Mullein oil is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to incorporate it into your daily routine:
- Ear oil: Warm a few drops and gently place them in the ear to soothe earaches or infections. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
- Massage oil: Use as a calming massage oil for sore muscles or inflamed joints.
- Skin treatment: Apply directly to dry, irritated, or inflamed skin to promote healing and hydration.
- Hair care: Massage into the scalp to help soothe dandruff or dryness.
Always do a patch test before applying extensively to check for any allergic reactions.
Conclusion
Creating your own mullein oil is a wonderful way to harness the natural healing power of this versatile plant. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can produce a soothing, nourishing oil that supports ear health, skin care, and overall wellness.
This recipe offers a natural, chemical-free alternative to store-bought oils and connects you to the tradition of herbal remedies.
Whether you’re a seasoned herbalist or just starting to explore homemade remedies, mullein oil is a practical and rewarding addition to your natural medicine cabinet. Give it a try and enjoy the benefits of this time-tested herbal infusion!
For more herbal and natural recipes, check out our posts on Calendula Salve Recipe, Lavender Infused Oil, and Homemade Chamomile Tea.
📖 Recipe Card: Mullein Oil Recipe
Description: A soothing herbal oil made from mullein flowers, perfect for earaches and skin irritations. This simple infusion captures the plant's natural healing properties.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT48H
Total Time: PT48H10M
Servings: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried mullein flowers
- 1 cup olive oil (or other carrier oil)
- 1 glass jar with lid
- Cheesecloth or fine strainer
- Dark glass storage bottle
Instructions
- Place dried mullein flowers into the glass jar.
- Pour olive oil over the flowers until fully covered.
- Seal the jar tightly and place it in a sunny window.
- Let the mixture infuse for 48 hours, shaking occasionally.
- Strain the oil through cheesecloth into a clean container.
- Transfer the strained oil to a dark glass bottle for storage.
Nutrition: Calories: 120 | Protein: 0g | Fat: 14g | Carbs: 0g
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