Know your Herb
Mullein
Verbascum thapsus
Latin Name: Verbascum thapsus
Common Names: Mullein, torches, velvet dock, blanket herb, our lady’s flannel, clown’s lungwort, Adam’s flannel, hare’s beard, fluffweed, old man’s flannel, feltwort
Family: Scrophulariaceae
Parts Used: Leaves, flowers, root
Native To: Central and Southern Europe, Western Asia
Geographic Distribution: Widespread
Chinese Medicine Name: Jia yan ye
Botanical Description
Mullein is a towering biennial herb that can reach heights of 6-8 feet. Its first year of growth is marked by a ground-level rosette of large, velvety leaves, up to 12 inches long. In its second year, the plant sends up a striking flower spike adorned with yellow, five-petaled flowers arranged alternately along the stem. The entire plant is covered in a soft, downy fuzz, giving it a texture reminiscent of flannel.
This hardy plant thrives in sunny, disturbed soils, often appearing along roadsides, embankments, and damaged lands. Mullein is considered a pioneer plant, one of the first to grow in areas of ecological disruption, symbolizing resilience and renewal.
Traditional Uses and Folklore
Mullein’s many colloquial names reflect its storied past. “Blanket herb” and “our lady’s flannel” nod to its soft, comforting leaves, while “torches” recalls its historical use as a candlewick, dipped in fat and burned to light the way. In folk medicine, mullein was valued as a versatile remedy, used by herbalists such as Nicholas Culpeper to address issues ranging from cramps and warts to respiratory ailments and earaches.
Native American traditions utilized mullein as a smoking herb for conditions like asthma and bronchitis. The plant’s association with respiratory health earned it names such as “clown’s lungwort” and “bullock’s lungwort.” Its presence across diverse cultures and traditions speaks to its enduring value as a healing herb.
Key Constituents
Mullein contains a wealth of bioactive compounds, including:
- Flavonoids: Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
- Mucilage: Soothes irritated mucous membranes
- Saponins: Stimulates the expulsion of mucus from the lungs
- Tannins: Astringent properties
- Iridoid Compounds: Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial
- Vitamins and Minerals: Nourishing and restorative
These constituents underpin mullein’s role as a potent yet gentle herb with a wide range of applications.
Therapeutic Benefits
- Respiratory Support
Mullein shines as a tonic for respiratory health. Rich in mucilage and saponins, it soothes irritated mucous membranes while promoting productive coughing, making it ideal for dry, non-productive coughs, bronchitis, asthma, and colds. The German Commission E approves its use for respiratory catarrhs, validating its long-standing role in herbal medicine.
- Ear Health
An infused oil made from mullein flowers is a classic remedy for earaches and infections. A 2003 clinical study found herbal ear drops containing mullein more effective than anesthetic drops for managing middle-ear infections in children. This supports mullein’s reputation as a safe and effective option for pediatric care.
- Musculoskeletal Support
Mullein root is prized for its ability to lubricate joints and promote synovial fluid production. It is especially useful for easing chronic joint pain, arthritis, and even helping realign the spine. Herbalist Matthew Wood and others have noted its efficacy in supporting structural alignment and relieving pain.
- Anti-Inflammatory Action
Studies confirm mullein’s anti-inflammatory properties, showing promise in conditions like rheumatism and soft tissue injuries. Its cooling, moistening energetics make it especially effective for addressing inflammation associated with dryness and irritation.
- Antiviral Potential
In vitro research has demonstrated mullein’s antiviral properties, particularly against influenza viruses. This adds to its arsenal as a supportive herb during cold and flu seasons.
Preparation and Dosage
- Tea/Infusion: Steep 2 teaspoons of dried leaves or flowers in boiling water for 15 minutes. Strain thoroughly to remove irritating hairs before drinking.
- Tincture: Take 2.5-5 mL of a 1:5 tincture (in 40% alcohol) up to three times daily.
- Infused Oil: Use wilted flowers to create an oil infusion for earaches or topically for inflammation.
- Poultice: Apply crushed leaves to the skin for wounds, inflammation, or joint pain.
Sustainability and Harvesting
Mullein is a sustainable herb with no known overharvesting issues. Leaves can be harvested from both first- and second-year plants before the flower stalk emerges, while flowers are best collected as they open in summer. The root should be harvested from first-year plants. Proper drying is essential to preserve the plant’s medicinal properties.
Cautions and Considerations
While mullein is generally safe, its fine hairs can cause skin irritation and should be removed from teas or tinctures using a cloth or fine filter. Avoid rubbing the leaves directly on the skin.
Fun Fact
In ancient times, mullein was thought to ward off evil spirits. Roman soldiers purportedly used its dried flower stalks as torches during rituals, cementing its place in folklore as a symbol of light and protection.
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is a versatile herb with a rich history and a bright future in herbal medicine. Whether soothing a cough, easing joint pain, or calming an earache, mullein offers gentle yet powerful support. Its resilience as a pioneer plant mirrors its role in human health, bringing balance and renewal wherever it is needed.