Is Mullein Good for Your Body? Exploring the Benefits, Uses, and Safety

November 1, 2025 •

5 min read

Used for thousands of years in traditional medicine, the common mullein plant ($Verbascum thapsus$) has a long history of use for respiratory ailments. But is mullein good for your body and supported by modern science? Emerging research suggests that mullein contains beneficial compounds with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties that may offer potential health advantages.

Quick Summary

An overview of mullein and its properties, including its traditional use for respiratory issues, and potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. The article also addresses safety concerns and a lack of extensive human research.

Key Points

Respiratory Support: Mullein acts as a natural expectorant to help clear mucus from the lungs and can soothe irritated respiratory passages.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: The herb contains flavonoids and saponins, which are compounds known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
Antimicrobial Action: Laboratory studies suggest that mullein extracts may have antibacterial and antiviral properties against certain pathogens, including influenza.
Required Precaution: Mullein tea must be strained carefully to avoid ingesting the fine hairs on the leaves, which can cause throat irritation.
Toxic Seeds: The seeds of the mullein plant may be toxic and should never be consumed.
Limited Human Research: While traditionally used for centuries, extensive human clinical trials confirming mullein's therapeutic efficacy are lacking.
Consult a Professional: Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals and those with chronic health issues should consult a doctor before using mullein.

A Deep Dive into Mullein's Health Properties

Mullein, a towering, fuzzy-leafed plant, has been a staple in herbal medicine for centuries. The leaves and flowers are the most commonly used parts to create teas, tinctures, and oils. From soothing irritating coughs to fighting certain infections, the purported benefits of mullein are vast and varied. Traditional uses, now being investigated by modern research, provide a framework for understanding how this versatile herb might support overall health.

Respiratory Health: Mullein's Signature Benefit

One of the most well-documented and historically significant uses of mullein is for supporting respiratory function.

Expectorant Properties: Mullein is a natural expectorant, meaning it helps to loosen and thin mucus in the respiratory tract. This can make it easier to cough up phlegm, providing relief from congestion and other respiratory symptoms associated with conditions like bronchitis, asthma, and the common cold.
Soothing Demulcent Action: The herb's mucilage content acts as a demulcent, creating a soothing, protective layer over irritated mucous membranes in the throat and airways. This can help calm irritating coughs and relieve throat soreness.
Support for Bronchial Passages: The calming, anti-inflammatory effect of mullein on the airways can be particularly beneficial for individuals with chronic respiratory issues or seasonal coughs, helping to open bronchial passages and ease breathing.

Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects

Beyond its reputation as a respiratory aid, mullein is rich in beneficial plant compounds that contribute to its potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities.

Flavonoids: Mullein contains flavonoids like luteolin and quercetin, which have demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in laboratory studies.
Saponins: Another class of compounds, saponins, is found in mullein and is associated with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Protective Properties: These antioxidants help combat oxidative stress, which can damage cells and contribute to chronic disease. By neutralizing harmful free radicals, mullein supports the body's natural defense mechanisms.

Antimicrobial and Antiviral Activity

Several lab-based studies have investigated mullein's ability to fight off certain viruses and bacteria. While human research is limited, the results are promising.

Antiviral Potential: Test-tube studies have indicated that mullein extract may have antiviral effects against influenza and some strains of the herpes virus.
Antibacterial Action: Mullein has also shown antibacterial properties against several strains of bacteria in test-tube studies, including $Bacillus cereus$ and $Klebsiella pneumoniae$.
Addressing Infections: This suggests that mullein may hold potential as a natural remedy for infections, though more human clinical trials are necessary to confirm its effectiveness.

Other Traditional and Emerging Uses

Mullein's applications extend beyond respiratory health and infection control. Traditionally, it has been used for a variety of other conditions.

Earaches: An oil infused with mullein flowers is a traditional remedy for earaches, with some studies showing positive results when combined with other herbs. It is crucial, however, to never put anything in the ear if the eardrum is ruptured.
Digestive Issues: The soothing properties of mullein can help with gastrointestinal discomfort, such as cramps and diarrhea.
Skin Irritations: Topically, mullein has been used as a soothing emollient for various skin conditions, wounds, and burns.

Comparison of Mullein with Common Over-the-Counter Remedies


Feature	Mullein (Herbal Remedy)	Common Over-the-Counter (OTC) Remedies
Mechanism	Works through natural compounds like mucilage and flavonoids to soothe irritated tissues and thin mucus.	Utilizes synthetic active ingredients designed to block specific histamine receptors or suppress cough reflexes.
Primary Uses	Traditionally used for respiratory issues, coughs, and inflammation.	Targets specific symptoms, such as cough, congestion, and pain.
Side Effects	Generally mild, though throat irritation from plant hairs can occur if not properly strained. Seeds may be toxic.	Can cause a variety of side effects, including drowsiness, dizziness, and upset stomach, depending on the medication.
Regulation	Not regulated by the FDA with the same stringency as drugs, leading to potential variations in quality.	Heavily regulated by the FDA, ensuring more consistent quality and strength.
Scientific Support	Primarily supported by traditional use and promising laboratory (test-tube) studies; human research is limited.	Extensive human clinical trial data backs the efficacy and safety for approved uses.

Potential Risks and Safety Precautions

While mullein is generally considered safe for most people, it is important to be aware of potential risks and take precautions. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new herbal supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have pre-existing health conditions.

Strain the tea properly: The fine, hair-like fibers on mullein leaves can cause throat irritation if ingested. It is crucial to strain mullein tea thoroughly using a fine-mesh strainer or coffee filter.
Toxic seeds: Mullein seeds contain a substance that may be toxic and should never be consumed. When preparing mullein yourself, ensure seeds are not present.
Allergic reactions: Some individuals may experience contact dermatitis or other allergic reactions from handling the plant's leaves.
Underlying conditions: Individuals with kidney disease should be cautious, as some research suggests a potential link to kidney issues, and those with chronic respiratory conditions like asthma should not replace conventional treatment with mullein without a doctor's guidance.
Drug interactions: While few are well-documented, mullein may interact with certain medications, including immunosuppressants.

Conclusion

So, is mullein good for your body? Based on centuries of traditional use and a growing body of scientific evidence, mullein shows promising potential as a natural remedy, particularly for respiratory health and inflammation. Its expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties can be beneficial for soothing coughs, clearing congestion, and fighting off certain infections. However, the available research is still largely based on lab studies, and human clinical trials are limited. While generally safe when used correctly, precautions such as thoroughly straining tea and consulting a doctor are essential. Mullein can be a valuable addition to a holistic wellness routine, but it should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice or conventional treatment. For those seeking a natural approach to respiratory and inflammatory support, mullein offers a time-tested option to consider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mullein tea is primarily used to address respiratory issues like coughs, bronchitis, and congestion, as it acts as an expectorant to help clear mucus from the lungs and soothes irritated airways.

Mullein is generally considered safe for most people, but it is important to strain mullein tea thoroughly to remove the fine hairs that can cause throat irritation. Mullein seeds are toxic and should not be consumed. As with any herbal supplement, it's wise to consult a doctor before use.

Yes, mullein is traditionally used for lung issues, including coughs and congestion associated with conditions like bronchitis and asthma. Its expectorant properties help loosen phlegm, while its demulcent nature soothes irritated respiratory passages.

Known side effects are minimal, but throat irritation can occur if the fine plant hairs are not strained out of mullein tea. Some individuals may also experience allergic skin reactions from handling the plant. The seeds are toxic and should be avoided entirely.

Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should avoid mullein due to a lack of safety research. Those with chronic health conditions, especially kidney disease, should consult a doctor. Since it can interact with certain medications, anyone on regular prescriptions should seek medical advice first.

Emerging lab research suggests mullein may possess anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to compounds like flavonoids and saponins. These properties support its traditional use in soothing inflamed tissues, though more human studies are needed.

To prepare mullein tea, add 1–2 teaspoons of dried mullein leaves to an 8-ounce cup of boiling water and steep for 15–30 minutes. Crucially, strain the tea through a fine-mesh strainer or coffee filter to remove the irritating plant hairs before drinking.