What is Mullein?
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is a biennial flowering plant native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa that has naturalized throughout North America. Also known as common mullein, great mullein, or velvet plant, it has been used in traditional medicine for over 2,000 years.
Plant Parts Used:
Leaves (most common)
Flowers
Roots (less common)
Active Compounds:
Saponins (respiratory expectorant properties)
Mucilage (soothing, coating properties)
Flavonoids (anti-inflammatory, antioxidant)
Iridoid glycosides (antimicrobial)
Tannins (astringent properties)
Primary Functions & Benefits
Traditional Uses:
Respiratory Support: Primary use for coughs, bronchitis, and lung conditions
Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation in airways and tissues
Expectorant: Helps loosen and expel mucus
Demulcent: Soothes irritated mucous membranes
Antimicrobial: May fight certain bacteria and viruses
Ear Health: Traditional remedy for ear infections (oil form)
Evidence-Based Benefits:
Relieves dry, irritating coughs
Supports recovery from respiratory infections
Soothes inflamed airways in bronchitis
May help with asthma symptoms
Reduces throat irritation
Supports lymphatic drainage
Anti-inflammatory effects on digestive tract
Mild sedative and nervine properties
Potential Benefits (Less Evidence):
Joint pain and arthritis relief
Skin wound healing
Digestive support
Urinary tract support
Sleep quality improvement
Migraine relief
Recommended Dosages
Dried Leaf Tea:
Standard: 1-2 teaspoons (2-4 grams) per cup, 3 times daily
Preparation: Steep 10-15 minutes, strain well through fine mesh or coffee filter
Tincture/Extract:
Standard: 2-4 ml (40-80 drops) 3 times daily
Concentration: Typically 1:5 ratio in 40-50% alcohol
Capsules/Tablets:
Standard: 300-500 mg of dried leaf, 2-3 times daily
Maximum: Up to 6 grams daily (divided doses)
Ear Oil:
Application: 2-3 drops in affected ear, 2-3 times daily
Important: Only use if eardrum is intact (no perforation)
Smoking Blend:
Amount: Small amounts mixed with other herbs
Note: While traditional, smoking any herb carries respiratory risks
Preparation Methods
Tea (Most Common):
Use 1-2 teaspoons dried leaves per cup of boiling water
Steep covered for 10-15 minutes
Strain thoroughly through cheesecloth or coffee filter to remove fine hairs
Add honey and lemon for respiratory benefits
Infused Oil (For Ears):
Infuse mullein flowers in olive oil for 2-4 weeks
Strain completely
Apply lukewarm, never hot
Syrup:
Combine strong tea with honey or glycerin
Take 1 tablespoon as needed for coughs
Food Sources & Forms
Mullein is not a food source but is available as:
Dried loose leaf (for tea)
Tea bags (pre-packaged)
Tinctures/liquid extracts
Capsules/tablets
Ear oil preparations
Topical salves/creams
Smoking blends
Powder form
Timing & Administration
Best Time to Take:
For respiratory support: Throughout the day, especially with symptoms
For coughs: Before bed to ease nighttime coughing
For ear infections: 2-3 times daily until resolved
General wellness: With or between meals, as preferred
Duration of Use:
Acute conditions: 7-14 days or until symptoms resolve
Chronic support: Safe for several weeks to months
Long-term use: Generally considered safe but take periodic breaks
With or Without Food:
Tea: Can be taken anytime, with or without food
Capsules: Better with food to reduce potential stomach upset
Tinctures: Can be taken with water between meals or with food
Synergistic Herbs & Supplements
Take WITH Mullein:
For Respiratory Support:
Thyme: Antimicrobial and expectorant
Licorice root: Soothes airways and reduces inflammation
Marshmallow root: Additional demulcent properties
Elecampane: Deep lung expectorant
Plantain leaf: Respiratory and immune support
Lobelia: Bronchodilator (use cautiously)
For Immune Function:
Echinacea: Immune stimulation
Elderberry: Antiviral properties
Vitamin C: Immune support and tissue healing
Zinc: Immune function and healing
For Inflammation:
Turmeric/Curcumin: Systemic anti-inflammatory
Ginger: Anti-inflammatory and warming
Bromelain: Enzyme that reduces inflammation
Interactions & What NOT to Combine
Herbs to Use Cautiously With:
Other sedative herbs: May enhance drowsiness (valerian, kava, passionflower)
Diuretic herbs: May have additive effects
Other respiratory depressants: Avoid combining with herbs that suppress breathing
Medication Interactions:
Diabetes medications: May enhance blood sugar-lowering effects (monitor closely)
Diuretics: Mullein has mild diuretic properties
Sedatives/CNS depressants: May enhance sedative effects
Lithium: Diuretic effect may affect lithium levels
Muscle relaxants: May enhance effects
Substances to Avoid:
Alcohol: May increase sedative effects
Other ear medications: Consult healthcare provider before combining
Note: Mullein has relatively few known drug interactions, but always inform healthcare providers of herbal use.
Who Should Take Mullein
Ideal Candidates:
People with acute respiratory infections (colds, flu, bronchitis)
Those with chronic coughs or throat irritation
Individuals with asthma or COPD (as complementary support)
People recovering from pneumonia
Those with ear infections (oil form)
Smokers or former smokers supporting lung health
People with seasonal allergies affecting respiratory tract
Individuals with inflammatory conditions
Those seeking natural sleep support
Common Uses by Population:
Adults with respiratory complaints
Children over 2 years (with appropriate dosing)
Elderly individuals with chronic bronchitis
Herbalists and natural medicine practitioners
Who Should AVOID or Use Caution
Contraindications:
Pregnancy: Insufficient safety data, avoid without medical supervision
Breastfeeding: Insufficient safety data, avoid or use cautiously
Infants under 2 years: Not recommended without pediatric guidance
Perforated eardrum: Never use ear oil if eardrum is ruptured
Use Caution:
People with diabetes (monitor blood sugar)
Those taking sedative medications
Individuals with kidney disease (due to diuretic properties)
People taking lithium or other medications with narrow therapeutic windows
Those with known allergies to plants in Scrophulariaceae family
Individuals with severe liver disease
Quality Concerns:
Ensure leaves are properly dried and stored
Always strain tea thoroughly to remove fine hairs
Use only reputable sources for ear oil preparations
Avoid mullein growing near roadsides (pollution contamination)
Deficiency Symptoms
Mullein is not an essential nutrient, so there are no deficiency symptoms. However, conditions that may benefit from mullein include:
Respiratory Indicators:
Persistent dry cough
Excessive mucus production
Inflamed airways or bronchial passages
Difficulty expectorating phlegm
Recurrent respiratory infections
Wheezing or chest tightness
Other Indicators:
Chronic ear infections
Inflamed mucous membranes
Poor sleep due to coughing
Throat irritation
Swollen lymph nodes
Toxicity & Side Effects
Common Side Effects (Rare):
Mild drowsiness or sedation
Skin irritation (topical use)
Mild digestive upset
Contact dermatitis from handling fresh plant
Potential Adverse Effects:
Improperly strained tea: Irritation from fine leaf hairs
Allergic reactions: Rash, itching, or breathing difficulties (rare)
Excessive use: Increased diuretic effect
Serious Concerns (Very Rare):
Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
Breathing difficulties if allergic
Ear damage if oil used with perforated eardrum
Signs to Discontinue Use:
Allergic reaction symptoms
Worsening respiratory symptoms
Severe drowsiness
Any unexpected or concerning symptoms
Safety Profile: Mullein is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used appropriately. Toxicity is extremely rare with normal use.
Special Considerations
Pregnancy & Lactation:
Safety rating: Insufficient data
Traditional use: Sometimes used but not well-studied
Recommendation: Avoid unless under healthcare supervision
Concerns: Potential uterine stimulation (theoretical)
Children:
Over 2 years: Generally safe with reduced dosing
Tea dose: 1/4 to 1/2 adult dose depending on age
Ear oil: Commonly used for childhood ear infections
Supervision: Always consult pediatrician first
Elderly:
Generally safe and well-tolerated
May benefit respiratory health
Monitor for enhanced sedative effects
Adjust doses if reduced kidney function
Quality & Sourcing:
Wildcrafting: Harvest from clean areas away from pollution
Organic sources: Preferred to avoid pesticides
Proper drying: Prevents mold and preserves constituents
Storage: Keep in airtight containers away from light and moisture
Shelf life: 1-2 years for dried herb when properly stored
Preparation Tips:
Always strain tea thoroughly to remove fine hairs that can irritate
Use flowers for ear oil rather than leaves
Test ear oil temperature before application
Make fresh batches of tea rather than storing prepared tea
Scientific Evidence
Well-Supported Uses:
Expectorant for productive coughs
Demulcent for irritated throat
Anti-inflammatory for airways
Traditional ear infection remedy
Limited Evidence:
Antiviral properties
Pain relief
Sedative effects
Skin healing
Research Status:
Most evidence is traditional and anecdotal rather than from large clinical trials. Small studies and laboratory research support anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and expectorant properties.
Summary & Key Takeaways
Mullein is a time-tested respiratory herb with an excellent safety profile when used appropriately. It excels at soothing irritated airways, supporting productive coughing, and providing relief from respiratory infections. The herb is versatile, available in multiple forms, and has relatively few contraindications.
Bottom Line: Mullein is an excellent choice for respiratory support, particularly for coughs and bronchitis. Use as tea or tincture for respiratory issues, ensure proper straining of tea, and consider it a safe complementary option for most people. Pregnant women and young children should use only under professional guidance. Most effective when combined with other respiratory herbs and used at the first signs of respiratory distress.