Apothecary
Mullein.
Verbascum thapsus
Also known as Hag's Taper, Aaron's Rod, Velvet Plant, Witch's Candle
The Hag's Taper, whose tall pale stalks were dipped in fat and burned by witches as torches in the dark. Mullein is the herb of the courage to speak when speech is hard, and to face what waits in shadow — torchlight in a green and gentle form.
Correspondences
Element
Fire
Planet
Saturn
Zodiac
Capricorn
Chakra
Root
Parts Used
Leaves, flowers, root
Harvest
Summer
Origin
Waste ground
Moon Phases
Waning
Practice
Magical Properties
Protection, courage, banishing spirits, love divination
Called 'Hag's Taper' because the dried stalks were dipped in fat and burned as torches in old witchcraft. Use mullein for courage to speak truth and face fears. Add to exorcism incenses.
Mundane
Mundane Uses
Expectorant, anti-inflammatory for respiratory complaints. Leaf tea used for coughs.
Devotion
Deity Associations
Jupiter, Hecate, Circe
History
Folklore & History
The large, torch-like stalks of mullein have made it associated with witchcraft across Europe. Ulysses used it against Circe. Roman soldiers dipped the stalks in tallow to make torches.
Safety
Safety Notes
Generally safe. Strain carefully as fine leaf hairs can irritate the throat.
This information is provided for educational and magical reference only. Always consult a qualified practitioner before using herbs medicinally.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mullein used for in witchcraft?
Mullein is traditionally used in workings for protection, courage, banishing spirits, love divination. Called 'Hag's Taper' because the dried stalks were dipped in fat and burned as torches in old witchcraft.
What element is Mullein associated with?
Mullein is associated with the Fire element and the sign of Capricorn, and resonates with the Root chakra.
What planet rules Mullein?
Mullein is ruled by Saturn. In the classical planetary system, this gives the herb its characteristic energetic signature and indicates which workings it most readily amplifies and which planetary hours best suit it.
Is Mullein safe to use?
Some care is required when working with Mullein. Generally safe. Strain carefully as fine leaf hairs can irritate the throat. The information here is provided for educational and magical reference only — always consult a qualified practitioner before using any herb medicinally.
In Your Practice
Track your work with Mullein.
Record spells, rituals, and observations in your private digital grimoire.
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