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Mullein, sometimes called Aaron’s rod, Cow’s lungwort, Lady’s foxglove, or its botanical name Verbascum thapus, is a biennial Scrophulariaceae (figwort) family member. The plant is native to North Africa, Asia, and Europe, though it can now be found throughout most of the world, including on uncultivated land and along roadsides. What the plant looks like will depend on the age of the plant.
First-year mullein plants are short, with gray-green leaves that grow in a circular arrangement (known as a rosette). The leaves can be oval or long but wide in the middle and pointed at both ends. The leaves range from 1 to 5 inches wide and 4 to 12 inches long (1). Second-year plants grow on a flower spike upward of 8 feet tall. The flower has flat, wide yellow petals and large, fuzzy leaves growing near the ground (2).
The leaves and flowers are typically collected during the summer. When harvesting from a first year mullein plant, always pick from the outer large leaves. You want to ensure the small inner rosette is intact so it can grow the following year. If you plan to forage for mullein, always harvest ethically. Never collect anything from private property without direct permission. When harvesting from public spaces, consider the impacts on native plant populations. Due to the uncertainty of surrounding plants, be careful not to disturb them as they could be an endangered or threatened species. Always be kind to the earth and only harvest what you need. I highly recommend joining the Facebook group Marvelous Mullein, an amazing resource for learning about this plant.
According to one of my favorite herbal resources, the Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine, mullein’s key constituents are mucilage, flavonoids, triterpenoid saponins, volatile oil, and tannins. Some of its herbal actions include (3):
- Antispasmodic: relieves muscle spasms.
- Antitussive: soothes and relieves coughing.
- Emollient: softens or soothes skin
- Expectorant: stimulates coughing to help clear phlegm/mucous.
- Vulnerary: heals wounds by replacing damaged or destroyed tissue with new tissue.
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Research-Backed Health Benefits of Mullein
In ancient times, mullein was used for lighting torches and making candle wicks. Today, it is used as a natural remedy worldwide, thanks to its many health benefits, such as:
Antibacterial Properties
An antibacterial property is when a substance, or in this case, an herb, can destroy or suppress the growth and reproduction of bacteria (4). One study noted mullein reduced the effects of isolated and standard Gram-negative bacteria strains, with Bacillus cereus being the most sensitive among tested strains (5). Another study showcased the antibacterial properties of mullein leaf extract, especially water extracts, against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria such as Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Staphylococcus aureus (6). A final study found mullein and red clover extracts effective against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and multiple skin and soft tissue infection (SSTI)-associated bacteria (7).
Antiviral Properties
Some test-tube studies indicate that mullein may have potent antiviral properties. An antiviral property is when a substance, or in this case, an herb, can kill a virus or suppress its ability to replicate, multiply, or reproduce (8). One study found combining the medication amantadine with mullein improved antiviral activity against influenza (9). Another study showcased mullein’s antiviral activity against influenza A without other medication (10). A final study demonstrated the antiviral activity of mullein against herpesvirus type 1 (11). Even mainstream sources acknowledge the strong antiviral effects of mullein (12).
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Although inflammation is a natural bodily response, chronic inflammation can lead to detrimental health effects. Chronic inflammation has been linked with many diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, asthma, and certain cancers (13). Mullein’s wide array of plant compounds, including polyphenols, assists in combating inflammation (14). Studies indicate mullein reduces inflammation and helps relax the muscles in the respiratory tract (15,16). Another study showcased that mullein’s anti-inflammatory and anti-osteoarthritic properties are comparable to Devil’s claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) but with fewer cytotoxic effects (17).
Astringent & Pain-Relieving Properties
An astringent property occurs when a substance, in this case, an herb, can cause the contraction or shrinkage of tissues and dry up secretions (18). Astringent herbs are typically used internally to reduce mucus and/or discharge and externally to remove infection or unwanted bacteria from skin wounds. One study found that mullein’s astringent properties can treat hemorrhoids and diarrhea (19). Dr. Axe notes that mullein’s emollient and astringent properties make it an excellent choice for ear infections (20). Another study discovered that mullein ear drops were as effective as anesthetics for middle ear infections (21).
May Promote Respiratory Health
Chronic lower respiratory diseases, such as asthma and COPD, are the sixth leading cause of death in the United States (22). These respiratory diseases often require controlling inflammation for proper respiratory health management (23,24). Thankfully, mullein leaves, flowers, and roots contain saponins that help rid the body of phlegm and mucilage.
Traditionally, mullein was used for tuberculosis (25). It has been used throughout history to help coughs, bronchitis, asthma, and just about every respiratory issue. Native Americans often smoked mullein for asthmatic relief and made mullein tea from the plant’s roots to calm coughs (26). One study notes that mullein’s cough-relieving properties are due to the plant’s mucilages, which are responsible for its antitussive and expectorant actions (27). Even mainstream sources acknowledge mullein’s historical use to treat respiratory conditions like bronchitis, tuberculosis and asthma, even tonsillitis, colds, and coughs (28). I use MaryRuth’s Organic Respiratory Health Liquid Extract for these benefits when I don’t make my homemade mullein tincture.
May Promote Skin Health
Skin health is important. The skin covers the entire external surface of the human body, making it the largest organ (29). It is a protection barrier that fights and prevents germs from entering the body (30). Due to mullein’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, mullein can provide exceptional skin-soothing properties.
Mullein has been used to assist in the healing of eczema, exanthema, cysts and zits, insect bites, nail infections, and other types of wounds (31). One study explains that 20% mullein extract applications demonstrate significant wound-healing activity in rabbit subjects (32). A scientific article notes that mullein extract has been used to treat skin disorders, including soothing chilblains and chapped skin due to its skin moisturizing and conditioning effects (33). That explains why Native Americans often used the leaves and flowers as a poultice for hemorrhoids, burns, tumors, and other skin problems.
Anticancer Properties
In 2021, there were 1,777,566 new cases of invasive cancer in the United States, with almost 10 million people who lost their battle with cancer worldwide (34,35). In other words, one out of every six deaths was cancer-related. That is a lot; however, a diagnosis or genetic predisposition doesn’t define your end result. Genetics may load the gun, but environmental factors and lifestyle choices ultimately pull the trigger. Thankfully, mullein may help.
Studies have found mullein to have both antioxidant and anticancer properties, which is important since antioxidants can help fight damage from harmful free radicals. The buildup of free radicals has been linked to chronic diseases like cancer (6). One study discovered that 300 mg of mullein extract resulted in 91.31% inhibition of DPPH free radicals and concluded it could be used for cancer and infectious diseases (37). In vitro studies found mullein extract possessed a notable anti-tumor effect and safety profile (38). Other research showed mullein inhibited the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme and had strong cytotoxic activity on cancerous cell lines, leading researchers to believe its a promising candidate for treating human colorectal adenocarcinoma and colon cancer (39).
Safety Information, Contraindications & Interactions
The mainstream narrative will tell you to talk to your doctor before using mullein. They claim there isn’t enough reliable information to know if mullein is safe or the side effects; they even claim it may be toxic as they caution against its use with infants and children or if pregnant or breastfeeding (40). Like always, take the mainstream’s cautions with a grain of salt because herbal experts say otherwise.
Richard Whelan, a trusted herbalist since 1989, has had no documented adverse reactions or effects with this herb. He states there may be an increase in coughing, and cleansing of the lungs is expected when mullein is taken for respiratory troubles. He goes on to say this is not a bad sign but rather a sure indicator that the herb is doing its job! Otherwise, no adverse effects are expected from mullein, even in high or frequent doses. It may be confidently taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding and used by the young or old for safety (41).
Additionally, the mainstream mentions that some species of mullein may cause contact dermatitis. Although Richard Whelan does not mention this, my husband and I experience this with the mullein plant but not when taking oral or topical herbal preparations. As a precaution, I recommend doing a patch skin test before topical use, especially if you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergic reactions.
How to Use Mullein & Product Recommendations
When I make homemade herbal remedies, I try to buy herbs locally. When buying locally isn’t an option, I typically purchase from one of the following brands:
Looking for additional herbal suppliers? Check out my post, 3 Ways to Source Herbs.
My go-to mullein remedy is my homemade mullein tincture. I am also trying to formulate another recipe with complementary herbs (I’ll share once I have perfected it). Nonetheless, to my understanding, the best preparation methods when working with mullein include the following:
- Herbal infusion from the leaves and/or flowers – learn how to make an herbal infusion
- Herbal syrups – learn how to make an herbal syrup
- Herbal tincture from the leaves and/or flowers – learn how to make an herbal tincture
- Topical oil infusions from the leaves, flowers, and/or roots – learn how to make a topical oil infusion
If making your home remedies isn’t quite your thing, I recommend a few premade herbal products, including:
- Gaia Herb’s Mighty Lungs is formulated to help maintain lung health and function. Made with mullein leaf, plantain leaf, marshmallow root, Schisandra, and more, these vegan phyto-liquid capsules combine both adaptogen and respiratory-supporting herbs.
- Herb Pharm’s Mullein Blend is expertly extracted to support the respiratory system. Made from a proprietary blend of the certified organic leaf and flower of Verbascum spp. plants, this herbal extract is rapidly absorbed.
- MaryRuth’s Organic Respiratory Health Liquid Extract is a specially formulated blend of herbs that may support your respiratory system and immune function, aiding in your overall health. If your respiratory system is occasionally irritated by dry air or other minor nuisances, reach for this blend.
- The Brother’s Apothecary Breathe Well CBD Tea combines powerful respiratory supporting herbs and antioxidant-rich rooibos tea with delicately sweet vanilla beans. This delicious and smooth drinking tea packs 30 mg of CBD per bag.
Product Disclaimer
Product recommendations are affiliate links. I do not own or make these products. Recommendations are selected according to ingredients at the time article was written and can change at any time. I encourage you to double-check ingredients and research each company to ensure they’re suitable for your journey.
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