Mullein has become one of the most popular herbs for respiratory comfort, and the shelves are now full of teas, capsules, gummies, tinctures and sprays. If you are thinking about trying it, here is a plain-language guide to what mullein is, what is known about it, and what to look for on the label.
What Is Mullein?
Common mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is a tall plant with large, soft, fuzzy leaves and yellow flowers. It grows wild across Europe, Asia and North America. For generations, its leaves and flowers have been used in traditional herbal practice, most often as a tea, to support the throat and airways.
What Does The Research Say?
It is fair to be honest here. Most of what we know about mullein comes from traditional use and laboratory studies of its plant compounds, which include saponins, flavonoids and mucilage, a soft, gel-like substance. Large clinical trials in people are limited. That means mullein is best thought of as a traditional herb for everyday comfort, not a treatment for any condition.
The Common Forms, Compared
- Tea: the most traditional option. Simple and inexpensive, but the amount of herb per cup is usually small. Mullein leaves have tiny hairs, so always strain the tea through a fine filter, such as a coffee filter.
- Capsules: convenient and tasteless, but they are one more pill to swallow, and many contain plain dried leaf powder.
- Gummies: easy to take, but often contain added sugar and modest amounts of herb.
- Liquid extracts and sprays: concentrated and quick to use, and many people find them easier to take every day.
5 Things To Check On The Label
- Is it an extract or plain leaf? An extract with a stated ratio, such as 10:1, tells you the herb was concentrated. Roughly 10 parts of leaf were used to make 1 part of extract. If the label just says “mullein leaf powder,” expect a milder product.
- What part of the plant is used? Most products use the leaf. Some use the flower. The label should say which.
- What else is in it? Many formulas pair mullein with other traditional ingredients, such as ginger, thyme, peppermint or bromelain, an enzyme from pineapple. Check that you are comfortable with every ingredient, and watch for added sugars or fillers.
- How much per serving? A clear amount per serving, in milligrams, is a good sign. Vague “proprietary blends” make it hard to know what you are getting.
- Who stands behind it? Look for a clear company name and contact details, a stated manufacturing location, and a money-back guarantee. Third-party quality seals are a plus when available.
Who Should Be Careful?
Mullein is generally considered well tolerated, but that does not mean it is right for everyone. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before trying mullein, or any supplement, if you:
- Have a lung condition, such as asthma or COPD, or any chronic illness
- Take prescription medications
- Are scheduled for surgery
- Have known plant allergies
A supplement should never replace an inhaler or any medicine your doctor has prescribed.
The Bottom Line
Mullein is a gentle, traditional herb that many people enjoy as part of a daily routine. If you try it, choose a product with a clear label, start with the suggested serving, use it consistently for a few weeks, and keep your doctor in the loop.
When To Talk To Your Doctor
Everyday tips are not a substitute for medical care. Contact your doctor promptly if you notice:
- A cough that lasts more than three weeks
- Shortness of breath that is new or getting worse
- Wheezing, fever or mucus that changes color
- Any side effects after starting a supplement
Call 911 right away for chest pain, severe trouble breathing, or bluish lips or fingertips.
Related reading: Don’t Buy Mullein Until You Read This (Especially If You’re Over 60)
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always talk to your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider about your symptoms and before starting any new supplement, exercise or routine. Some pages on this site contain affiliate links; see our Affiliate Disclosure.