Mullein

Verbascum thapsus

Common & Folk Names

• Great Mullein
• Common Mullein
• Aaron’s Rod
• Shepherd’s Club
• Flannel Leaf
• Candlewick Plant
• Velvet Dock
• Quaker Rouge
• Torchweed
• Our Lady’s Flannel
• Beggar’s Blanket
• Hare’s Beard
• Grandmother’s Flannel

Plant Family

Scrophulariaceae (Figwort family)

Geographic Location

Native to Europe, temperate Asia, and North Africa. Now naturalised throughout North America, Australia, New Zealand, and other temperate regions worldwide. One of the most successful introduced medicinal plants, now found on every continent except Antarctica.

Habitat

A pioneer species that colonises disturbed sites including roadsides, pastures, dry meadows, gravelly slopes, railway embankments, cleared land, and waste areas. Thrives in full sun with well-drained, often poor or rocky soil. Tolerant of drought and harsh conditions. Often one of the first plants to establish after disturbance or fire.

Growing Conditions

Sun: Requires full sun; will not tolerate shade

Soil: Prefers dry, rocky, sandy, or gravelly well-drained soil. Tolerates poor soil and low fertility. pH 6.0-8.0 (slightly acidic to alkaline). Drought-tolerant once established

Propagation: By seed only. Seeds require light for germination and can remain viable in soil for decades (up to 100 years). Scatter seeds on soil surface in autumn or early spring; do not cover. Seeds germinate best with cold stratification

Care: Biennial growth habit–forms a low-growing basal rosette of large, fuzzy leaves in the first year, then sends up a tall flowering stalk (1-2.5 meters/3-8 feet) in the second year. Minimal care required. Drought-tolerant. Self-seeds prolifically; remove spent flower stalks before seeds set if you don’t want extensive spread

Hardiness: USDA zones 3-9; extremely cold-hardy and heat-tolerant

NZ Planting Calendar

Sowing (seeds): Spring (September–November) or autumn (March–May) – surface sow, needs light to germinate

Planting: Spring (September–November) for best establishment

First year: Rosette of large basal leaves forms

Second year: Flowering spike emerges (December–February), flowers open progressively up the spike

Harvest (leaves): First year autumn/winter (March–July) or second year before flowering

Harvest (flowers): Second year summer (December–February) – pick individual flowers as they open

Harvesting Guidelines

Leaves: Harvest large basal leaves from first-year rosettes or from the stem of second-year plants before flowering begins. Best harvested on a dry, sunny morning after dew has evaporated. Select green, healthy leaves without yellowing, browning, or insect damage. The leaves are covered in fine, branched hairs (trichomes) that can be irritating to some people–wear gloves if sensitive. For drying, spread leaves on screens in a well-ventilated area away from direct sun, or hang in bundles. When completely dry (crispy), the fine hairs can be removed by gently rubbing dried leaves through a fine-mesh sieve or strainer if desired, though this is optional.

Flowers: Harvest individual bright yellow flowers daily as they open on the flower spike during the second summer. Flowers open progressively from bottom to top of the spike over many weeks. Pick flowers in mid-morning after dew has dried but before heat of day. Flowers are highly perishable and must be used fresh immediately or preserved in oil or alcohol within hours of harvest. Cannot be dried successfully for medicinal use as they lose potency and turn brown. For oil infusions, use fresh flowers; wilt for 12-24 hours to reduce moisture content before adding to oil to prevent spoilage.

Parts Used

• Leaves (primary medicinal part for internal use)
• Flowers (primary for ear oil preparations)
• Root (less commonly used, primarily in some traditional applications)

Constituents & their Actions

Mullein contains a diverse array of bioactive compounds that contribute synergistically to its respiratory, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial actions. The constituent profile varies between leaves and flowers, with leaves being richer in mucilage and flowers containing higher concentrations of some flavonoids.

Mucilage (Polysaccharides):

Mucilage comprises approximately 3% of the dried leaf and consists of complex polysaccharides that form a slippery, gel-like substance when hydrated. The primary mucilage compounds in mullein are:

• Arabinogalactans
• Galacturonans
• Glucomannans
• Arabinoxylans

The main actions of these mucilage polysaccharides are:

• Demulcent (soothing and protective coating for mucous membranes)
• Emollient (softening and moistening)
• Mild anti-inflammatory through physical barrier formation
• Antitussive (cough-suppressing through coating irritated tissue)

Iridoid Glycosides:

These compounds provide significant anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and potential antiviral actions. Some of the main iridoid glycosides in mullein are:

• Aucubin (0.1-0.5% in leaves, up to 3% in some varieties)
• Catalpol
• Harpagide
• Harpagoside
• Ajugol

The main actions of these iridoid glycosides are:

• Anti-inflammatory (inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines)
• Hepatoprotective (liver-protecting)
• Antioxidant (free radical scavenging)
• Mild antiviral activity
• Neuroprotective properties

Phenylethanoid Glycosides:

These phenolic compounds are particularly concentrated in flowers and provide powerful therapeutic actions. The primary phenylethanoid glycoside in mullein is:

• Verbascoside (acteoside) (0.5-7% in leaves, higher in some chemotypes)
• Isoverbascoside
• Forsythoside B

The main actions of verbascoside and related compounds are:

• Potent anti-inflammatory (reduces iNOS, COX-2, IL-6, MMPs)
• Strong antioxidant (exceeds vitamin E activity in some assays)
• Antiviral (active against herpes simplex virus type 1, influenza viruses)
• Wound healing (promotes fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis)
• Neuroprotective and hepatoprotective

Saponins:

Triterpene saponins provide expectorant and mild antimicrobial actions. Some of the main saponins in mullein are:

• Verbascosaponin
• Ilwensisaponin A and C
• Various triterpene glycosides

The main actions of these saponins are:

• Expectorant (stimulates bronchial secretions through gastric reflex)
• Mucolytic (helps thin and mobilise mucus)
• Mild antimicrobial activity
• Surfactant properties (reduce surface tension)

Flavonoids:

Mullein contains a diverse flavonoid profile providing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support. Some of the main flavonoids are:

• Hesperidin (flavanone glycoside)
• Luteolin and luteolin glycosides (0.2-0.7%)
• Quercetin and quercetin glycosides
• Kaempferol
• Rutin
• Apigenin derivatives
• Isorhamnetin
• Narcissin

The main actions of these flavonoids are:

• Antioxidant (free radical scavenging)
• Anti-inflammatory (inhibit inflammatory mediators)
• Antispasmodic (smooth muscle relaxation)
• Antimicrobial support
• Capillary-strengthening

Volatile Oils:

Present in small amounts (0.1-0.3%), particularly in flowers. Components include:

• Thymol
• Carvacrol
• Various monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes

The main actions are:

• Antimicrobial
• Mild expectorant

Actions with Mechanisms

Demulcent (Mucous Membrane Protection):
The abundant mucilage polysaccharides in mullein leaf hydrate upon contact with water to form a viscous, gel-like substance, which in turn physically coats inflamed or irritated mucous membranes throughout the respiratory, digestive, and urinary tracts. This protective mucilage barrier shields underlying tissue from further irritation by creating a slippery surface that reduces friction and contact with irritants, which in turn provides immediate soothing relief from rawness, dryness, and pain. The mucilage also helps trap and remove particulates and irritants from mucosal surfaces, which in turn supports the body’s natural cleansing mechanisms. This demulcent action makes mullein particularly valuable for dry, irritated coughs and inflamed respiratory passages.

Expectorant (Mucus Mobilisation):
The triterpene saponins (particularly verbascosaponin) irritate the gastric mucosa when taken internally, which in turn triggers a vagal nerve reflex that stimulates increased secretion of thin, watery mucus by bronchial glands throughout the respiratory tract. This reflex expectorant action hydrates thick, stuck mucus, which in turn makes it less viscous and easier to expectorate. The increased fluid secretion also helps restore moisture to dry, irritated airways, which in turn soothes the urge to cough while simultaneously making productive coughing more effective. This dual mechanism–both moistening and mobilising–makes mullein effective for both dry and productive coughs.

Anti-inflammatory (Multiple Pathways):
Verbascoside, the dominant phenylethanoid glycoside, powerfully suppresses inflammatory signaling by inhibiting key pro-inflammatory enzymes including inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and multiple matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs 1, 8, 9), which in turn reduces production of nitric oxide, prostaglandins, and tissue-degrading enzymes. Additionally, verbascoside and aucubin reduce expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines including interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-1 (IL-1), which in turn dampens the overall inflammatory cascade. The flavonoids stabilise mast cell membranes and reduce histamine release, which in turn decreases allergic inflammatory responses. This multi-pathway anti-inflammatory action provides relief in both acute and chronic inflammatory conditions affecting the respiratory tract, skin, and other tissues.

Antioxidant (Free Radical Scavenging):
Verbascoside exhibits exceptional antioxidant activity that equals or exceeds vitamin E in some assays, directly neutralising reactive oxygen species (ROS) and free radicals through electron donation, which in turn prevents oxidative damage to cellular lipids, proteins, and DNA. The flavonoids including hesperidin, quercetin, and luteolin provide additional antioxidant support through multiple mechanisms, which in turn protects tissues from oxidative stress during inflammation, infection, or environmental exposure. The iridoid glycosides contribute further antioxidant effects, which in turn creates a comprehensive antioxidant shield that supports tissue healing and reduces chronic inflammation.

Antiviral (Direct and Immune-Mediated):
Verbascoside and related phenylethanoid glycosides demonstrate direct antiviral activity against enveloped viruses including herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), influenza virus A2 and B, and potentially SARS-CoV-2, through mechanisms that disrupt viral envelope integrity and interfere with viral replication, which in turn prevents viral entry into cells and limits viral spread. Studies show mullein extracts inhibit viral replication in vitro at relatively low concentrations. Additionally, the iridoid glycosides may enhance immune function and interferon production, which in turn provides indirect antiviral support through immune system activation. This combination of direct virucidal and immune-enhancing effects makes mullein valuable during acute viral respiratory infections.

Antimicrobial (Bacterial and Fungal):
Mullein extracts demonstrate in vitro antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive bacteria (including Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus pyogenes) and Gram-negative bacteria (including Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa), which in turn provides protection against common respiratory and ear pathogens. The antimicrobial mechanisms involve disruption of bacterial cell membranes and interference with bacterial metabolic processes through combined actions of saponins, volatile oils (thymol, carvacrol), and flavonoids, which in turn inhibits bacterial growth and replication. Some antifungal activity against Candida species has also been demonstrated. While not as potent as pharmaceutical antibiotics, mullein’s broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties support the body’s defenses against opportunistic infections.

Antispasmodic (Bronchial Smooth Muscle Relaxation):
The flavonoids in mullein, particularly quercetin and hesperidin, exert mild antispasmodic effects by blocking calcium channels in smooth muscle cells, which in turn reduces muscle contractility and promotes relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle. This calcium channel blocking activity reduces bronchial spasm and wheezing, which in turn opens airways and eases breathing during asthmatic conditions, bronchitis, or coughs with spasmodic components. Animal studies have demonstrated that mullein extracts shift calcium dose-response curves to the right, which in turn indicates genuine calcium channel antagonism similar to pharmaceutical antispasmodics but much milder in effect.

Vulnerary (Wound Healing):
Verbascoside significantly enhances wound healing through multiple mechanisms: it stimulates fibroblast proliferation and migration, which in turn increases collagen synthesis and tissue regeneration; it reduces inflammatory markers at the wound site, which in turn prevents excessive inflammation that can impair healing; and it provides antimicrobial protection, which in turn reduces infection risk. Animal studies show topical mullein preparations accelerate wound closure rates and improve the quality of healed tissue with less scarring. The combination of anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and tissue-regenerative actions makes mullein effective for both external wounds and internal mucosal healing.

Analgesic (Pain-Relieving):
The iridoid glycosides, particularly aucubin and catalpol, demonstrate antinociceptive (pain-blocking) activity in animal models through mechanisms that may involve modulation of pain perception pathways and reduction of inflammation-induced sensitisation, which in turn reduces pain sensation. Verbascoside contributes additional analgesic effects through its anti-inflammatory actions, which in turn addresses pain at its inflammatory source. The ear oil preparation provides rapid topical pain relief for otitis media (middle ear infection) pain through combined anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial effects applied directly to the affected area.

Main Use

Mullein’s primary medicinal application is for respiratory conditions, where it has been trusted for centuries as a gentle yet effective remedy for coughs, bronchitis, asthma, and other respiratory ailments. The combination of demulcent mucilage, expectorant saponins, and anti-inflammatory compounds makes mullein particularly valuable for dry, irritated coughs that feel stuck in the chest–the kind that causes rawness and soreness but produces little or no phlegm. Mullein soothes the inflamed respiratory passages while simultaneously helping to mobilise and thin stubborn mucus, which in turn transforms a painful, unproductive cough into a more productive one that clears congestion.

For bronchitis, whooping cough, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and asthma, mullein provides symptomatic relief by reducing inflammation, relaxing bronchial spasms, and supporting the natural cleansing action of the respiratory system. The tea is the traditional form for respiratory support, often combined with other respiratory herbs like thyme, elecampane, or licorice root for enhanced effects.

Mullein flower oil (flowers infused in olive oil) is a renowned traditional remedy for ear infections (otitis media) and earaches, particularly in children. Clinical research has validated this traditional use, showing that a combination herbal ear oil containing mullein along with garlic, calendula, and St. John’s wort is as effective as pharmaceutical anesthetic ear drops for reducing pain associated with acute otitis media in children. The oil is applied topically into the external ear canal where it provides anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and pain-relieving effects. This application is one of mullein’s most well-researched modern uses.

Topically, mullein has been used for wound healing, skin inflammation, hemorrhoids, and eczema. The anti-inflammatory and vulnerary properties of verbascoside combined with the emollient effects of the mucilage make it soothing for irritated skin and supportive of tissue repair. Compresses or poultices of mullein leaf have been traditionally applied to bruises, minor wounds, and inflammatory skin conditions.

Preparations

Tea/Infusion (Leaf): 1-2 teaspoons (1-3 grams) of dried chopped leaves per cup of boiling water. Cover tightly to preserve volatile oils and steep for 10-15 minutes. Strain well through fine cloth, coffee filter, or very fine-mesh strainer to remove all leaf hairs, which can be irritating to the throat. Drink 3-4 cups daily for respiratory support. The tea has a mild, slightly sweet, hay-like flavor

Tincture (Leaf): 1:5 in 40% alcohol. Take 2-4 mL (40-80 drops), 3-4 times daily. Less commonly used than tea, as tinctures don’t extract mucilage well

Glycerite (Leaf): 1:4 in vegetable glycerin. Better than alcohol tincture for extracting mucilage. Take 3-5 mL, 3-4 times daily. Good option for children

Syrup: Prepare strong decoction of leaves (simmer 30 grams in 500 mL water until reduced by half), strain very well, and combine with equal parts honey. Take 1-2 teaspoons as needed for cough. Combines demulcent properties of both mullein and honey

Ear Oil (Flower): Fresh mullein flowers infused in olive oil using the folk method (fill jar with fresh flowers, cover with olive oil, infuse in warm sunny location for 2-3 weeks, strain) or the simpler method (gently warm fresh wilted flowers in olive oil at low heat 150-175°F/65-80°C for 2-4 hours, strain). Often combined with garlic, calendula, and/or St. John’s wort. Warm oil to body temperature before use. Instill 3-5 drops in affected ear(s) 2-3 times daily. IMPORTANT: Do not use if eardrum is perforated or ruptured

Poultice/Compress (Fresh or Dried Leaf): Soften fresh leaves by bruising or briefly wilting, or rehydrate dried leaves in warm water. Apply directly to affected area. Cover with cloth. Use for wounds, bruises, hemorrhoids, or inflamed joints

Smoking Blend: Dried mullein leaves have been traditionally smoked for asthma and lung congestion relief, though this method is not recommended due to inhalation risks

Dosage

Dried Leaf (Tea): 1-2 teaspoons (1-3 grams) per cup, steeped 10-15 minutes, 3-4 cups daily

Tincture (1:5, 40% alcohol): 2-4 mL (40-80 drops), 3-4 times daily

Glycerite (1:4, vegetable glycerin): 3-5 mL, 3-4 times daily

Syrup: 1-2 teaspoons as needed for cough, up to 6 times daily

Ear Oil: 3-5 drops in affected ear(s), 2-3 times daily, warmed to body temperature. For children and adults

Topical (poultice/compress): Apply as needed, typically 2-3 times daily until improvement

Safety & Drug Interactions

Scientific Evidence

Ear Pain/Otitis Media: The most robust clinical evidence for mullein comes from pediatric ear infection studies. A randomised, double-blind trial by Sarrell et al. (2001) compared a naturopathic herbal ear oil containing mullein (Verbascum thapsus), garlic (Allium sativum), calendula (Calendula officinalis), and St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) in olive oil versus conventional anesthetic ear drops (ametocaine and phenazone) in 103 children ages 6-18 with ear pain from acute otitis media. The herbal oil demonstrated equivalent efficacy to the pharmaceutical drops in reducing pain, with both groups showing significant pain reduction. A follow-up study (Sarrell et al., 2003) with 171 children ages 5-18 found the naturopathic ear drops provided effective pain relief comparable to standard treatments, with the added benefit of having no documented side effects. While these studies used combination formulas (not mullein alone), they validate the traditional use of mullein-containing ear oils for otitis media pain management.

Anti-inflammatory Activity: Multiple in vitro and animal studies demonstrate mullein’s anti-inflammatory properties. Research on Verbascum extracts shows significant inhibition of pro-inflammatory biomarkers including IL-6, COX-2, iNOS, and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs 1, 8, 9). Verbascoside, the primary active phenylethanoid, reduces inflammatory cytokine production and oxidative stress markers in stimulated immune cells. Animal studies using carrageenan-induced paw edema models show mullein extracts significantly reduce inflammation comparable to standard anti-inflammatory medications. A water-based extract of V. thapsus leaves demonstrated marked effects on inflammatory biomarkers, supporting its use for mild joint inflammation and early-stage osteoarthritis.

Antimicrobial Activity: In vitro studies confirm mullein’s broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. Turker and Camper (2002) found mullein water extracts showed antibacterial activity against Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Escherichia coli. Leaf extracts demonstrated activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, with commercial products and purified saponins showing variable activity. The flower oil showed particularly strong activity against several bacterial species. Mullein extracts also inhibit Agrobacterium tumefaciens-induced tumors in potato disc tissue, suggesting potential anticancer properties requiring further investigation.

Antiviral Activity: Studies demonstrate mullein’s antiviral potential against multiple viral pathogens. McCutcheon et al. (1995) found mullein leaf extracts active against bovine herpes virus type 1. Research by Zgorniak-Nowosielska et al. (1991) showed Flos verbasci (mullein flower) infusion has antiviral activity against influenza and herpes simplex viruses in vitro. Serkedjieva (2000) demonstrated that mullein flower infusion combined with amantadine derivatives showed enhanced antiinfluenza virus activity, suggesting mullein might potentiate antiviral medications. While most studies are in vitro or animal models, they support traditional use for viral respiratory infections.

Antioxidant Activity: Multiple studies confirm mullein’s powerful antioxidant properties. Georgiev et al. (2011) found significant antioxidant activity in mullein extracts correlated with phenolic content. Verbascoside demonstrates antioxidant activity equal to or exceeding vitamin E in some assays. The flavonoid and phenolic acid content contributes substantial free radical scavenging capacity. These antioxidant properties likely contribute to mullein’s anti-inflammatory and tissue-protective effects.

Wound Healing: Animal studies validate traditional topical use for wound healing. Turkish researchers studied 13 Verbascum species for wound healing activity using linear incision and circular excision models with subsequent histopathological analysis. Several species including V. olympicum, V. stachydifolium, and V. uschackense demonstrated the highest wound healing activities. Akdemir et al. (2011) isolated verbascoside from Verbascum mucronatum and found it possessed significant wound healing activity as well as antinociceptive (pain-relieving) and anti-inflammatory effects without inducing toxicity. These findings support traditional use of mullein for skin conditions and wound care.

Antispasmodic Activity: Ali et al. (2012) investigated mullein’s antispasmodic effects on rabbit jejunum preparations. The plant extract caused dose-dependent relaxation of both spontaneous and KCl-induced contractions, with activity comparable to atropine. Calcium chloride curve experiments suggested the mechanism involves calcium channel blockade, preventing calcium entry through voltage-sensitive L-type calcium channels. This research validates traditional use for abdominal cramping and supports respiratory antispasmodic applications.

Western Energetics

Temperature: Cooling to Neutral. Mullein is generally considered cooling through its moist, soothing demulcent properties and anti-inflammatory actions, though not as intensely cooling as some herbs. Appropriate for “hot” inflammatory conditions with dryness and irritation

Moisture: Moistening. The high mucilage content provides significant moistening qualities, making mullein ideal for dry conditions–dry cough, dry irritated respiratory passages, dry inflamed skin. Addresses tissue states with dryness and depletion

Tissue State: Primarily indicated for Heat/Excitation combined with Atrophy/Dryness (hot, dry, irritated tissue states). The classic indication is for dry, unproductive coughs with inflammation and irritation but little moisture or expectoration. Also valuable for Damp/Heat when infection is present (combines antimicrobial with anti-inflammatory actions). The demulcent, cooling, moistening nature combined with gentle expectorant action makes it particularly suited for lung tissue that is inflamed, irritated, and depleted

Taste

Sweet: The dominant taste quality from the mucilage polysaccharides. This sweetness is mild, pleasant, and slightly hay-like. Sweet taste is nourishing, building, and moistening, supporting mullein’s restorative and demulcent actions

Slightly Bitter: A subtle bitterness from the flavonoids and iridoid glycosides provides mild drying and clearing actions that balance the moistening mucilage. The bitterness is not pronounced but contributes to mullein’s ability to clear heat and support elimination

Bland/Mucilaginous: The overall impression is soft, smooth, and coating–characteristic of demulcent herbs. This quality directly correlates with its soothing, protective actions

Plant Lore

Mullein’s distinctive appearance–tall flower spikes covered in bright yellow flowers rising from a rosette of large, thick, velvety-soft leaves–has captured human imagination for millennia. The common name “mullein” likely derives from the Latin mollis meaning “soft,” referring to the plant’s fuzzy texture, though some sources suggest it comes from Old French malen meaning “diseased,” referring to its use for various ailments.

The folk name “Aaron’s Rod” references the Biblical staff of Aaron that miraculously budded and bloomed, likening the plant’s tall flowering stalk to this sacred symbol. The names “Candlewick Plant” and “Torchweed” come from an ancient practical use: the dried stalks dipped in tallow or fat were used as torches in ancient Rome and medieval Europe. The woolly leaves and flower stalks, when dried, burn slowly and steadily, and Roman soldiers reportedly carried mullein stalks as portable torches on night marches. Witches and sorcerers were said to use mullein stalks as wicks for their lamps and candles.

The soft, flannel-like texture of the leaves inspired numerous folk names including “Flannel Leaf,” “Our Lady’s Flannel,” “Beggar’s Blanket,” and “Grandmother’s Flannel.” This softness had practical applications: shepherds traditionally lined their boots with mullein leaves for warmth and cushioning on long walks. The leaves were also used as primitive insoles and even as makeshift toilet paper in rural areas (though the irritating hairs made this less than ideal!).

In European folk tradition, mullein had protective magical properties. The plant was believed to ward off evil spirits, curses, and malevolent magic. Mullein stalks were hung over doorways to protect homes, and the leaves were carried as amulets for protection during travel. In some cultures, mullein smoke from burning leaves was used to drive away ghosts and negative energies from children and homes.

The common name “Quaker Rouge” has a delightful origin story: Quaker women, who were forbidden from wearing cosmetics by their strict religious code, would rub the fuzzy mullein leaves on their cheeks to create a rosy flush–a natural “blush” that technically wasn’t makeup! This gentle skin irritation from the leaf hairs caused temporary reddening, providing color while adhering to the letter of Quaker rules against cosmetics.

Dioscorides, the ancient Greek physician whose De Materia Medica (1st century CE) was the foundational herbal text for over 1,500 years, recommended mullein for lung diseases. The herb was official in the Irish Pharmacopoeia and has been used continuously in European folk medicine since ancient times for respiratory ailments, earning it folk names like “Clown’s Lungwort.”

Early American settlers recognised mullein immediately when they arrived in North America, having brought seeds from Europe specifically for its medicinal value. The plant escaped cultivation so successfully that it’s now considered a naturalised species across North America. Native American tribes quickly adopted mullein into their own medicinal traditions, using it for respiratory conditions, skin ailments, and even as a hunting aid (the toxic seeds were sometimes used as a fish stupefacient, stunning fish in streams for easier catching, though this practice is now illegal in most places).

In traditional Irish herbal medicine, mullein was one of the seven herbs considered most valuable for treating children’s ailments. The gentle, safe nature of the herb made it particularly trusted for treating children’s coughs, colds, and earaches.

Additional Information

“Weed with a Deed”: Mullein is often dismissed as a common weed due to its proliferation in disturbed areas, yet it exemplifies the concept that some of the most valuable medicinal plants grow freely and abundantly. Its widespread availability makes it accessible to everyone, regardless of economic means–a true “people’s medicine.”

Biennial Growth Pattern: Understanding mullein’s two-year lifecycle is important for both wildcrafters and growers. First-year rosettes contain the most medicinal leaves. Second-year plants prioritise flowering over leaf production, and leaves become tougher and less ideal (though still usable). Plan harvesting accordingly.

Classic Herbal Combinations: Herbalists frequently combine mullein with complementary respiratory herbs:

• Mullein + Thyme: Adds antimicrobial and stronger expectorant action
• Mullein + Lobelia: Classic formula for opening airways and relieving spastic coughs (use lobelia cautiously under professional guidance)
• Mullein + Marshmallow Root: Increases soothing demulcent properties for very dry, irritated conditions
• Mullein + Elecampane: Enhances expectorant effects and adds warming, stimulating properties
• Mullein + Liquorice Root: Adds anti-inflammatory support, pleasant flavor, and additional demulcent action

Leaf Harvest Sustainability: When wildcrafting mullein, harvest leaves sustainably by taking only ⅓ of leaves from any single plant, leaving the plant healthy and able to continue photosynthesis. First-year rosettes can generally spare more leaves than second-year flowering plants. Since mullein is abundant in most areas, consider harvesting from multiple plants rather than heavily from one.

Flower Harvest Patience: Harvesting mullein flowers requires commitment–you must visit plants daily throughout the flowering period (often 4-8 weeks) to collect fresh flowers as they open. The flowers open in sequence from bottom to top of the spike, with only a few opening each day. This labor-intensive process explains why commercially prepared mullein flower oil is more expensive than mullein leaf preparations.

The Fine Hair Challenge: The branched trichomes (plant hairs) covering mullein leaves are a defining feature but can be problematic. These hairs are composed of a hard, crystalline structure that doesn’t soften with cooking or steeping. While some people aren’t bothered by them, others find them very irritating. The solution is thorough straining–use coffee filters, fine cloth (like muslin or several layers of cheesecloth), or purpose-made nut milk bags. Some herbalists prefer to remove hairs from dried leaves by gently rubbing them through a coarse screen or sieve before making tea, though this is optional.

Smoking Mullein – Not Recommended: While mullein leaves have been traditionally smoked for asthma and lung complaints (and are still sold in some herbal smoking blends), modern understanding of smoke inhalation suggests this is not advisable. Any smoke introduces irritants and particulates into the lungs. The tea or tincture provides the same respiratory benefits without the risks associated with smoke inhalation.

New Zealand Availability: Mullein grows wild throughout New Zealand, having naturalised since European introduction. It’s commonly found along roadsides and in disturbed areas, particularly in drier regions of both North and South Islands. Some regional councils classify it as a weed in certain areas. Seeds and plants are available from some herb nurseries and online suppliers. Dried mullein leaf is available from bulk herb suppliers in New Zealand. Commercial mullein ear oil is available from some natural health stores and online herbal suppliers. Fresh or dried mullein can often be wildcrafted free, making it one of the most accessible medicinal herbs.

First Herb for Beginners: Mullein is often recommended as one of the first medicinal herbs for beginning herbalists to learn to identify and use. The plant is unmistakable (nothing else looks quite like it), generally safe, readily available, and demonstrably effective for common family ailments like coughs and earaches. This makes it an ideal “gateway herb” for people wanting to explore herbal medicine.

Environmental Role: As a pioneer species, mullein plays an important ecological role in stabilising disturbed soils, preventing erosion, and creating conditions that allow other plants to establish. The deep taproot breaks up compacted soil. While considered invasive in some regions, it’s part of the natural succession process and rarely dominates to the exclusion of native species.

Sources

Akdemir, Z., Kahraman, Ç., Tatlı, I. I., Küpeli Akkol, E., Süntar, İ., & Keleş, H. (2011). Bioassay-guided isolation of anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive and wound healer glycosides from the flowers of Verbascum mucronatum Lam. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 136(3), 436–443.

Ali, N., Shah, S. W., Shah, I., Ahmed, G., Ghias, M., & Khan, I. (2012). Anthelmintic and relaxant activities of Verbascum thapsus Mullein. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 12, 29.

Georgiev, M., Alipieva, K., Orhan, I., & Abrashev, R. (2011). Antioxidant and cholinesterase inhibitory activities of Verbascum xanthophoeniceum Griseb. and its major iridoid glucosides. Journal of Enzyme Inhibition and Medicinal Chemistry, 26(5), 633–638.

Gupta, A., Atkinson, A. N., Pandey, A. K., & Bishayee, A. (2022). Health-promoting and disease-mitigating potential of Verbascum thapsus L. (common mullein): A review. Phytotherapy Research, 36(4), 1507–1522.

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McCutcheon, A. R., Roberts, T. E., Gibbons, E., Ellis, S. M., Babiuk, L. A., Hancock, R. E., & Towers, G. H. (1995). Antiviral screening of British Columbian medicinal plants. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 49(2), 101–110.

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