Mullein - Verbascum thapsus

Mullein, or Verbascum thapsus, is a flowering herbaceous plant. It tends to grow in sunny places where the soil has been disturbed. It can grow to be 7-8 feet tall. It is anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial. It contains saponins, iridoid and phenylethanoid glycosides, flavonoids, vitamin C and minerals.

Mullein has mucilaginous and expectorant properties that may soothe respiratory troubles. Studies have shown that it is active against several gram positive and gram-negative organisms that cause upper respiratory infections and pneumonia.¹It is generally recognized as safe, although the fine hairs that cover the plant can cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals. The flowers can be used to make oil for ear infections.

Mullein has antiseptic qualities and studies have found it effective at fighting pneumonia, staph and E. coli bacteria.^²Other research indicates that mullein has antiviral properties, too, and may even slow the influenza virus. It has been used to treat tuberculosis.³Taking mullein when you have a cold or flu may help you beat the infection faster.

Suggested dosing: Tincture 3-15 ml per day. It’s best to use it from time to time as needed and not continuously.

Possible Side Effects: Dermatitis, allergy.

Contraindications: Pregnancy and breastfeeding.

How to prepare tea: It’s best to use a tea bag for this because it has fine hairs that can be irritating. Otherwise pour the tea through a coffee filter, tea bag, or cheesecloth before drinking.

¹Muhammad Riaz, Muhammad Zia-Ul-Haq, Hawa Z.E. Jaafar, Common mullein, pharmacological and chemical aspects, Revista Brasileira de Farmacognosia, Volume 23, Issue 6, 2013, Pages 948-959, ISSN 0102-695X, https://doi.org/10.1590/S0102-695X2013000600012.

² Turker, Arzu & Camper, N. (2002). Biological activity of Common Mullein, a medicinal plant. Journal of ethnopharmacology. 82. 117-25. 10.1016/S0378-8741(02)00186-1.

³Common mullein, pharmacological and chemical aspects, ://doi.org/10.1590/S0102-695X2013000600012

Disclaimer:These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose or treat any disease. I am not a medical professional and cannot diagnose or treat any medical conditions.