Plant MedicineMullein

Mullein

Verbascum thapsus

Family: Scrophulariaceae

Also known as: Great mullein, Common mullein, Woolen mullein, Candlewick plant, Flannel leaf, Cowboy toilet paper

At a glance

Best for: Cough, Bronchitis, Congestion, Ear infections, Respiratory support
Parts used: Leaves, Flowers, Root
Common forms: Tea, Tincture, Ear drops (flower oil), Smoking blend
Evidence level: Traditional-only/Early
Cautions: Flowers contain irritant compounds—strain carefully; No clinical trial evidence
Respiratory
Tea
Tincture
Ear drops (flower oil)
Smoking blend
Europe
North Africa
Asia

What it is

Mullein is a tall biennial with large soft velvety leaves and a central spike covered in yellow flowers. The leaves and flowers contain saponins (expectorant), mucilage (soothing), and verbascoside (anti-inflammatory). The velvety texture has given rise to its nickname in the American West.

Traditional use

Used in ancient Greece and Rome for lung conditions. Dioscorides and Pliny both described it. Native American peoples used it extensively for respiratory conditions and smoked it ceremonially for spiritual clarity. Used in European folk medicine as the premier herb for any chest condition.

What modern research suggests (Traditional-only/Early)

Verbascoside and other compounds show anti-inflammatory activity in vitro. Saponins act as expectorants. Antimicrobial activity demonstrated against several bacteria. Clinical trials are completely lacking despite widespread traditional use.

How people use it

For cough/respiratory: steep 1–2 teaspoons of dried leaf in hot water 15 minutes, strain very thoroughly, drink 3 cups daily. Ear infections: warm mullein flower olive oil infusion slightly and drop 3–4 drops into the ear canal. Not recommended as a smoking herb despite tradition—smoke of any kind is harmful to the lungs.

Safety + interactions

Very safe with long traditional use. The leaf hairs (trichomes) can irritate throat if tea is not well-strained. Flower oil for ears is very safe. No known drug interactions.

Quality notes

Flower oil (infused in olive oil) is the traditional preparation for ear infections—warm gently before use. When making tea from leaves, strain very well through multiple layers of cloth or a coffee filter to remove the tiny hairs (trichomes) which can irritate the throat. Dried leaves should be soft and velvety.

Community Insights

Premium members share their experiences and knowledge about this plant.

Disclaimer: This content is educational and not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbs or supplements, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition.

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