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What is Mullein?

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is a common biennial weed that has been used medicinally for centuries. It is native to Europe, North Africa and Asia but has naturalized to North America and can be found growing wild in fields, roadsides and open meadows. Mullein has large, woolly, grayish-green leaves and tall spike-like yellow flowers. It grows up to 6 feet tall.

The leaves and flowers of the mullein plant are used medicinally for a variety of potential benefits. Mullein leaves are often dried and made into teas or tinctures. The leaf and flower extracts have been used as folk remedies for conditions like cough, bronchitis, asthma, cold, sore throat, congestion, chest congestion, inflammation, earaches, migraines, gout and bacterial infections.

Mullein contains many active compounds such as saponins, iridoid glycosides, flavonoids, sterols, volatile oils, mucilage, minerals and vitamins that contribute to its potential medicinal effects. Some of mullein's key constituents include verbascoside, aucubin, hesperidin, beta-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamin C.

Where to Find Mullein

If you want to harvest your own mullein leaves, you can often find this plant growing wild in open meadows, fields, roadsides, waste places and areas with disturbed soil.

Look for mullein in these types of locations:

• Fields, open meadows, pastures
• Disturbed soil areas, roadsides, railroad tracks
• Gravel pits, quarries, sandy areas
• Mountain trails, forest clearings
• Fence rows, embankments
• Ditches, dry waterways

Mullein spreads by seeds so it often appears in areas where the soil has been disturbed. Check local regulations before harvesting wild mullein, as it may be considered a weed in some areas.

The best time to harvest mullein leaves is in the second year of the plant's growth, during the flowering stage, between June and September. You'll want to look for leaves that are vibrant green and free of holes, spots or signs of disease.

If harvesting from the wild, only collect mullein leaves from healthy looking plants and avoid areas that could have been sprayed with herbicides or pesticides.

Purchasing Mullein

If you don't have access to mullein growing in the wild, there are a few options for purchasing it:

• Dried mullein leaves - Many natural health food stores, herb shops and apothecaries sell dried mullein leaves in bulk or tea bags.
• Mullein tea - Pre-made mullein tea bags are sold at many grocery stores and online retailers.
• Mullein tincture - Mullein leaf tinctures can be found at health food stores and online shops.
• Mullein capsules - Mullein supplements in capsule form are readily available from vitamin shops and online.
• Mullein liquid extracts - Mullein liquid extracts are also sold at natural health stores and online.
• Grow your own - You can buy mullein seeds and grow your own plants in your backyard, garden or containers.

When purchasing mullein products, always buy from a reputable source and look for organically grown mullein when possible.

Using Mullein

There are several ways mullein can be used, both internally and topically:

Tea

Mullein tea is a traditional remedy for respiratory problems like coughs, colds, bronchitis and asthma. To make mullein tea:

• Steep 1-2 teaspoons dried mullein leaves or flowers in hot water for 5-10 minutes.
• Strain the tea and drink up to 3 times daily.
• Mullein tea has a pleasant, mild flavor that is slightly sweet.

Tincture

Mullein tinctures harness the power of the plant for easy consumption and absorption. To use:

• Look for alcohol-based mullein tinctures made from the leaves or flowers.
• Follow dosage on label, but a typical amount is 1 ml taken 1-3 times per day.
• Add drops of tincture to water or tea.

Capsules

Mullein capsules provide all the benefits of mullein in a convenient capsule form:

• Look for mullein leaf powder or root powder in vegetarian/vegan capsules.
• Take as recommended on label, usually 1-2 capsules daily.

Topical Use

Mullein leaves and flowers can be made into soothing, healing topical applications:

• Mullein infused oil - Steep mullein flowers in olive oil for 4-6 weeks then apply externally to skin, joints or muscles.
• Mullein poultice- Mash fresh mullein leaves and apply directly to skin to calm irritation, rashes or inflammation.
• Mullein bath - Add mullein tea or tincture to a warm bath to aid respiratory issues and inflammation.

Smoking

The large, downy mullein leaves were traditionally dried and smoked to treat lung congestion, although this practice is controversial today. Smoking anything can be harmful to lung

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.