Herb library
Mullein
Verbascum thapsus
Mullein is a soft, tall wildflower with fuzzy leaves that has been a familiar household remedy for generations. Its leaves and flowers are used in gentle steamings, teas, syrups and compresses for soothing irritated airways and skin.
Traditionally used for.
- •Traditionally used as a mild expectorant and demulcent for dry, irritating coughs and hoarse throats.
- •Traditionally used as a steam or inhalation to ease congestion and soothe irritated nasal passages and bronchial passages.
- •A long-standing household use is making infused oil or salves from the flowers and leaves for minor skin irritations, bruises, and sore spots.
- •Traditionally used as a gentle gargle or throat rinse for sore, scratchy throats.
Simple preparations.
- •Mullein tea: steep 1 heaping teaspoon dried mullein leaf or flowers per cup of boiling water, cover and steep 10 to 15 minutes, strain well through a fine mesh or cheesecloth to remove tiny hairs, drink up to 3 cups a day.
- •Mullein steam inhalation: place 2 to 3 tablespoons fresh or dried mullein leaves and flowers in a heatproof bowl, pour just-boiled water over them, drape a towel over head and bowl, inhale the steam for 5 to 10 minutes, repeat once or twice daily as needed.
- •Mullein flower oil for compress: warm 1/2 cup olive oil with 2 tablespoons dried mullein flowers gently in a double boiler for 30 to 60 minutes without boiling, strain thoroughly through fine cloth, soak a clean cloth in the oil, apply as a warm compress to the chest or sore area for 10 to 20 minutes.
Cautions.
- !Mullein leaves have fine hairs that can irritate the throat or skin if not well strained; always filter infusions and be mindful of irritation.
- !Some people may develop skin sensitivity or contact dermatitis from topical mullein preparations; test a small skin area first.
- !Do not give honey-based mullein remedies to children under one year of age.
- !If you are pregnant, nursing or taking medicines, check with your doctor before using mullein.
Often kept beside.
Our sister app HerbLens identifies mullein from a photo and keeps its full botanical portrait: growing guide, harvest notes, and look-alike warnings.
View on HerbLensAsk HerbSense how mullein fits your situation: what you feel, what you have at home, and what to prepare.
Ask about MulleinHerbSense shares traditional herbal knowledge for education, not diagnosis or treatment. Herbs can interact with medicines and conditions. Speak with your doctor before acting on anything here, and seek care promptly for anything severe, sudden, or worsening.