What Is Mullein?

Mullein (Verbascum ) is a common plant used for centuries in herbal medicine. Though most gardeners consider it a weed, herbalists often use its flowers and leaves to treat respiratory problems, digestive issues, and skin conditions, among other health concerns.

There are many different species of mullein, but the most common of them is Verbascum thapsus, or the mullein leaf.

This article explains the traditional uses of mullein in herbal medicine, how it is commonly administered, and what you need to know about side effects, precautions, and interactions when taking it.

Uses of Mullein

Supplement use should be individualized and vetted by a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian, pharmacist, or healthcare provider. No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.

The list of mullein's purported uses is long. However, much of the evidence supporting these uses is weak.

Many studies evaluating mullein have been performed in vitro (i.e., in a test tube) rather than in humans. Though we can learn many things from in vitro studies, we won't know the full effects of mullein until further human trials are complete.

Nevertheless, mullein has been taken as an herbal remedy for:

• Inflammation
• Pulmonary disease
• Asthma
• Diarrhea
• Cough
• Migraine
  

Sometimes, mullein is applied directly to the skin to help treat burns or wounds. Together with garlic and other extracts Mullein can be as effective as oral amoxicillin. It has also been used in eardrop formulations to treat ear infections. Additionally, mullein is thought to have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer properties. However, there isn't much scientific evidence to support these claims.

One of the only human trials for mullein available investigated the herb's use for episiotomy wounds. In the study, new mothers applied a mullein cream preparation on their episiotomy wounds twice a day for 10 days. The mullein cream enhanced the healing of episiotomy wounds.

Scientific data does not strongly support mullein's effectiveness at treating any condition. However, it continues to be taken as an herbal remedy for many health concerns.

What Are the Side Effects of Mullein?

There are no common or severe side effects associated with the use of mullein.

According to one review of various herbs, mullein has no reported side effects. In another study, participants who used mullein for episiotomy wounds did not experience side effects after using it for 10 days.

Although there are no known adverse effects associated with the use of mullein, it's important to educate yourself about supplement safety before using any herb.

It is difficult for the FDA to effectively evaluate all supplements on the market; therefore, many products out there are unregulated and haven't been tested for safety. This means the actual content of some products may not match their product labels. It's also important to keep in mind that some supplements may not be safe for children, people who are pregnant or nursing, or people with certain medical conditions.

Precautions

There are a few precautions for the use of mullein. It is generally recognized as a safe supplement because its side effects are few.

However, certain populations of people should take precautions when using mullein. Always speak with a healthcare provider prior to starting a new supplement to make sure it is safe for you. There is not enough information regarding the safety of mullein for people who are pregnant or lactating. We also do not know how using mullein affects small children.

If you have any health conditions or are taking medication, then talk with your healthcare provider about whether mullein is right for you.

Dosage: How Much Mullein Should I Take?

There is not enough scientific data to determine a recommended dose of mullein for most people. This is because researchers have completed few human trials for mullein.

Researchers from one study looking at mullein's effects on episiotomy wounds found that creams containing 7.5% mullein extract were beneficial for healing wounds.

Aside from this study, we do not have sufficient evidence to recommend mullein dosage.

The correct dose for you may depend on your age, gender, body weight, and any present medical conditions. You should take mullein as directed. You can talk with your healthcare provider to determine the right mullein dosage for you.

What Happens if I Take Too Much Mullein?

Mullein is likely non-toxic, and an overdose is unlikely. Scientists typically recognize it as a safe supplement. However, they have not determined a standardized dose of mullein due to a lack of scientific evidence.

There have been no reported instances of mullein toxicity. Regardless, you should only take mullein as directed and avoid taking more than your healthcare provider has recommended.

Interactions

Whether mullein interacts with drugs, foods, herbs, or supplements is unknown. We need more research to know if any interactions exist.

Because we are unaware of interactions, it's important to be cautious when taking mullein. This is especially true if you have any health conditions, are taking any medications or other supplements, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Mullein supplements may contain other ingredients. Reading all supplements' ingredient lists and nutrition facts panels to know which and how much of each ingredient is included is essential. Please review this supplement label with your healthcare provider to discuss potential interactions with foods, other supplements, and medications.

How to Store Mullein

You should store mullein supplements in a cool, dry place and out of direct sunlight. It's best to keep mullein supplements in their original container to avoid spoiling.

If you are using mullein leaves or tea, you should also keep these out of direct sunlight. Mullein creams and oils do not require refrigeration, but you should store them in a dry location.

Regardless of the form of your mullein supplements, protect them from reaching overly hot or cold temperatures. Discard your mullein supplements when they reach their expiration date as listed on their packaging.

Similar Supplements

You may wonder if there are supplements on the market that are similar to mullein.

Many supplements claim to offer similar benefits. For instance, like mullein, vitamin C is thought to improve wound healing. This is because vitamin C contains antioxidants and other substances that are important to all phases of wound healing.

Zinc, an important mineral, may also help heal wounds, especially leg ulcers.

Other supplements that may work in similar ways include:

• Curcumin
• Peppermint oil
• Honey
• Magnesium
  

Be sure to talk with your healthcare provider before starting new supplements or taking multiple supplements. They can advise you on potential interactions with medications or other supplements.

Sources of Mullein and What to Look For

Because mullein is not found in foods, the best method to get it is through supplements. Mullein supplements come in many forms.

Mullein Supplements

You can find mullein supplements in the form of tinctures, creams, capsules, lozenges, oils, powders, and eardrops. Mullein tea is also available. Mullein supplements are also typically vegan because they derive from plants.

With so many supplement forms available, the best one for you may depend on your preference. Due to limited research, it's too soon to recommend mullein as a treatment for any condition. If you're considering mullein, talk to your healthcare provider to weigh its potential risks and benefits.

Remember that alternative medicine should not serve as a substitute for standard care. Self-treating a condition while avoiding or delaying standard care may have serious consequences. Be wary of any products claiming to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease; supplement manufacturers are not allowed to make such health claims.

Summary

For some people, herbal supplements like mullein may relieve various symptoms. Although mullein appears to be fairly safe, it has not been proven effective in treating any health condition.

Proceed with caution and speak with your healthcare provider before starting mullein. When buying herbal products, look for brands whose products undergo testing by third parties such as the United States Pharmacopeia (USP), ConsumerLab, or the National Science Foundation (NSF).