Mullein Health Benefits, Properties, and Uses
Scientific Name: Verbascum thapsus
Properties: Anti-inflammatory, Astringent, Sedative, Strongly expectorant, Demulcent
What is Mullein?
Mullein is a flowering plant native to Europe, Asia and north Africa. It spreads quickly and is considered a weed. There are around 300 species of mullein but common mullein is the one most well-known for its health benefits and medicinal uses.1 Common mullein (Verbascum thapsus), is a biennial plant that produces a soft stem and leaves with very thick masses of hairs. Depending on the species, the mullein plant may produce white or yellow flowers.1 Mullein leaves, flowers and roots are all used for medicinal purposes. While it is common to make a tea from the mullein plant, mullein is also available in many other forms. You can find mullein in tincture, powder or oil form in local health food stores.2
Mullein Health Uses and Health Benefits
Mullein health benefits come from its plant nutrition. Mullein contains flavonoids, tannins, carbohydrates, proteins, oils and fats. Traditional mullein uses by Greeks have been for improving skin conditions, sore throats and respiratory problems.2 3 Mullein health benefits include:2 3
- Healing infections through antiseptic properties
- Reducing inflammation
- Relieving pain from sore throat
- Treating joint and muscle pain
- Improving respiratory illnesses
- Fighting bacteria and viruses
- Reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels
- Improving hair growth and fighting dandruff
Mullein uses include being a natural remedy for healing and preventing the following conditions:
- Emphysema - Mullein uses include being an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory for healing upper respiratory tract conditions. Mullein can help ease symptoms of emphysema and improve breathing.
- Bronchitis - Mullein can help ease upper respiratory tract conditions and fight infections. This helps to treat bronchitis and improve breathing.
- Bursitis - Mullein is a natural anti-inflammatory that can help ease joint and muscle pain. Mullein topical treatments can help lower inflammation and reduce pain caused by bursitis.
- Common Cold - Mullein can help fight infections, boost the immune system and improve breathing which all help to treat the common cold.
- Fibrocystic Breast - Mullein tea can help to alleviate pain and tenderness caused by fibrocystic breasts.
Mullein Side Effects and Precautions
There are no known serious mullein side effects. Some people may develop an allergic reaction and develop mullein side effects like dermatitis or other skin irritation. Do not take mullein as a natural remedy if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.2