
This episode features a conversation with herbalist Lian Bruno about the nuances of smokable herbs, particularly mullein, and includes a recipe for Lung Lube syrup.
Isn’t smoking bad for you? Yes…but the conversation around smokable herbs may be more nuanced than you think. In this episode, I’m joined by herbalist and founder of Puff Herbals, Lian Bruno, for a grounded, thoughtful conversation about smokable herbs—especially mullein ( Verbascum spp. ). While many herbalists shy away from this topic, Lian approaches it through a lens of harm reduction, compassion, and what she calls “holistic hedonism.” LIan explores why mullein has long been used in smoking blends, how formulation dramatically changes the smoking experience, and why all-or-nothing thinking can make conversations about smoking harder, not safer. This episode isn’t a blanket endorsement of smoking, nor is it a how-to guide. Instead, it’s an invitation into nuance: understanding energetics, honoring ritual, and supporting people exactly where they are. During our conversation, Lian shares her recipe for Lung Lube, a syrup that offers both immediate relief and long-term support for lungs irritated by smoke or sickness. You can download your beautifully-illustrated recipe card here . By the end of this episode, you’ll know: ► Four reasons mullein is considered a classic smokable…
Host: Rosalee de la Forêt
Guest: Lian Bruno
Organizations: Puff Herbals
Products: Lung Lube
Books & works: mullein, smokable herbs
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