BREATHING & LUNGS

Mullein

Verbascum thapsus

also known as Great mullein, Common mullein, Flannel leaf, Lungwort…

Moderate (traditional respiratory)

A tall, fuzzy-leaved roadside plant whose soft yellow flowers and silvery leaves have been used for respiratory complaints across European and Indigenous American traditions. The leaves are gentle on the lungs and the flower oil has a long traditional use for ear discomfort.

Long traditional use as a respiratory herb — for dry cough, bronchitis, and chest tightness
Mucilage content makes it soothing to irritated airway tissue
Mild expectorant action helps loosen and move mucus
Mullein flower oil has a traditional use for ear discomfort, often paired with garlic
Topical use eases minor skin irritation
Generally very gentle — considered one of the safest respiratory herbs

Active in Mucilage, Saponins, Verbascoside, Flavonoids (luteolin, quercetin, apigenin), Iridoid glycosides.

The fine hairs on the leaves can irritate the throat — strain tea well to remove them

Avoid putting any oil into the ear if a ruptured eardrum is suspected — see a provider first

Limited safety data during pregnancy and nursing — traditional use is considered safe but stick to gentle preparations

Mullein seeds (not leaves or flowers) contain compounds that have been used historically as a fish poison — use leaves and flowers only

Memorial Sloan Kettering About Herbs · EMA Herbal Medicinal Product Monographs · American Botanical Council HerbMedPro

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