Mullein

         🌿 (Verbascum thapsus)

Also known as Verbascum, Great Mullein, or Common Mullein

📖 Overview

Mullein is a soft, silvery-leaved plant traditionally used to support respiratory health, soothe mucous membranes, and promote clear breathing. Revered in Western herbalism and European folk medicine, Mullein is often called upon for lungs, throat, and ear health.

The gentle yet potent action of Mullein makes it a popular herb for individuals seeking natural respiratory support, especially during seasonal changes or exposure to environmental irritants.

📜 Traditional Use in Herbal Systems

• Western Herbalism: Supports healthy lung function, soothes dry cough, and maintains clear respiratory passages

• European Folk Remedies: Infused into oils for ear and respiratory health

• Ayurvedic Comparison: Analogous to Kaphahara (Kapha-reducing) and Vata-balancing herbs, promoting moisture and calmness in the respiratory tract

🍵 Suggested Use

• Tea/Infusion: 1–2 tsp dried leaves or flowers steeped in hot water; strain well to remove fine hairs

• Tincture: Concentrated extract used to soothe the lungs and support respiratory health

• Oil: Flowers infused in olive oil for external ear and topical applications

• Capsules: Available for respiratory blends and easy daily use

🔬 Scientific Research & References

Mullein contains saponins, mucilage, and flavonoids that contribute to its traditional respiratory benefits:

• Respiratory Support: Helps maintain clear bronchial passages and soothes dry mucous membranes [1]

• Anti-inflammatory Effects: Reduces irritation and inflammation in respiratory tissues [2]

• Antimicrobial Properties: Exhibits antibacterial and antiviral activity, supporting overall lung health [3]

• Symptom Relief in Clinical Trials: Mullein tea shown to reduce cough, dyspnea, and sore throat in patients [4]

References:

1. Ali, S. I., et al. (2012). Verbascum thapsus: A review of its traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacology. Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences, 15(2), 633–642.

2. Turker, A. U., et al. (2004). Antimicrobial activity of Verbascum thapsus extracts. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 94(2–3), 337–341.

3. Houghton, P. J., et al. (1987). Antimicrobial activity of medicinal plants used for respiratory infections. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 20(3), 221–229.

4. Abbasi, H., et al. (2023). The effects of hyssop and mullein tea on the clinical symptoms of COVID-19 patients. ResearchGate Publication.
   Link

Additional Source:

• Mousavi, S. H., et al. (2021). A Review on the Case of Mullein (Verbascum, Scrophulariaceae). PMC Article.
  Link

⚠️ Cautions & Contraindications

• Always strain mullein tea thoroughly to remove tiny leaf hairs that could irritate the throat

• Generally safe and well-tolerated

• Source from clean, pesticide-free environments when wildcrafting

🛍️ Shop by Interest

• Respiratory System

• Immune System

• Skin

• Products for Vata

"Products containing Mullein to support healthy respiratory function"

These products feature Mullein, traditionally used to support respiratory health. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease."