Mullein is the common name for numerous species of the genus Verbascum, plants that grow wild in meadows, prairies and along roadsides in North America, Europe and Asia. This plant grows several feet high and develops a spike of tiny yellow flowers. As an herbal remedy, mullein has soothing topical effects, and people also use it as a traditional medicine for respiratory disorders, although no research confirms it is beneficial for lung conditions, according to the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC). Consult a qualified health care provider before beginning any herbal therapy.
Expectorant
Mullein has expectorant properties, meaning it may help loosen phlegm and break up congestion, according to Drugs.com. Some herbalists use mullein on a traditional basis for treating asthma, tuberculosis and pneumonia. The University of Michigan Health System notes that the traditional uses of mullein may support a role in treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
Potential
Laboratory studies show that mullein kills viruses on contact in test tubes, according to the BIDMC. Preliminary research also indicates that mullein may boost the effectiveness of some medications that treat influenza. The BIDMC cautions that these findings show potential for mullein use, but do not indicate that taking mullein as a supplement can fight viral infections.
Mullein Components
The leaves and flowers of mullein are used in herbal remedies. Herbal texts classify the plant as an expectorant and a demulcent, as it both breaks up phlegm and soothes irritated mucous membranes. Medicinally-important chemical compounds in mullein include mucilage and saponins. Because its mucilage content becomes a slick, gel-like substance when mixed with liquid, mullein may be effective as a cough suppressant and is included in herbal antitussive teas. The saponins are responsible for the expectorant action of mullein, as explained by Drugs.com.
Types
Mullein is available commercially as liquid or dried extract, tincture and tea. Some preparations combine mullein with other herbs that have expectorant or demulcent properties. You can make mullein tea by adding 1 or 2 tsp. of dried leaves and flowers to 1 cup boiling water and steeping for 10 minutes. Strain before drinking. Breathing the steam from mullein tea also can be beneficial for congestion, according to the BIDMC.
Safety
No negative effects or contraindications are associated with mullein, according to Drugs.com. You should not use mullein seeds in herbal remedies because they contain a substance called rotenone, which may be toxic if you consume it on a long-term basis. Because some supplements may contain residue from mullein seeds, the BIDMC recommends that pregnant women, young children and people with severe kidney or liver disease not take mullein for a prolonged time frame.
