Some people use mullein flowers and leaves to make oil or tea. Possible benefits include antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. There are some safety tips you should keep in mind.
The mullein plant has been around for thousands of years. The plant is found in many parts of the world, including the United States, and has more than 200 species.
The most popular type commercially used is common mullein (Verbascum thapsus). The leaves are harvested near the bottom of the plant and used either fresh or dried to make various products.
Read on to learn more about mullein leaf, including the possible benefits, risks, and more.
There are many different Verbascum species, and studies show many have polyphenols. These compounds can have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Some active compounds of mullein include:
- saponins, which have anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and antitumor properties
- flavonoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
- phenylpropanoid glycosides, which have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiviral properties
- iridoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties
Some naturopathic physicians and herbalists recommend mullein for respiratory and inflammatory conditions, but currently there’s not enough scientific evidence of its effectiveness.
More research is necessary to better understand the possible benefits of these properties, but existing research is promising.
Antiviral properties
A 2023 study has shown Verbascumspecies to have antiviral activity against influenza A and herpes.
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Antibacterial properties
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Learn more about the possible benefits of mullein leaf tea.
Based on anecdotal evidence and published studies, there are no reports of major side effects from mullein.
There’s no information on safety for use during pregnancy, while breastfeeding, or in infants and very young children. Talk with your doctor before considering mullein leaf.
Bacterial and viral infections can pose serious health risks. Before self-treating these infections with mullein leaf, consult your doctor for advice.
If you have any serious chronic health conditions, talk with your doctor about the safety of mullein leaf for you.
In the United States, botanical or herbal products don’t have to go through Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval before they’re sold to consumers.
Because of this, manufacturers aren’t required to show the potency or efficacy of botanical or herbal products.
“Natural” also doesn’t necessarily mean safe. Herbal products
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when buying herbal products:
- Look for brands with
current good manufacturing practice (CGMP) and U.S. Pharmacopeia Convention (USP) quality seals. - Before buying an herbal product, talk with your doctor or pharmacist to avoid potential interactions or adverse reactions.
- Ask your pharmacist for guidance and recommendations on trusted products.
- Look for evidence-based studies that show proven safety and efficacy.
- Check with the manufacturer about ingredient safety and quality.
Sometimes herbal products are contaminated with harmful ingredients, such as heavy metals like lead, arsenic, or mercury. This is especially true of supplements taken orally and manufactured in countries with looser regulations.
Herbal products may also be contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or fungi that can make you sick, especially if you have a compromised immune system.
Possible risks of mullein oil
It’s important to use caution when using mullein oil or other essential oils.
Mullein oil can be made from either fresh or dry parts of the plant by either hot (active) or cold (passive) processing:
- Hot oil infusion: This process involves using a double boiler technique to gently heat a carrier oil, such as olive oil, with mullein leaves or flowers for up to 3 hours. Then the product is strained and stored.
- Cold-steeped oil: The cold process usually involves steeping dry flowers or leaves in carrier oil for 7 to 10 days.
Some people are sensitive to the plant and can have allergic reactions or skin irritation with topical use. You should always use a carrier oil when applying mullein oil.
Never ingest mullein oil. If you plan to use mullein oil topically, be sure to speak with a doctor first.
Mullein has been around for thousands of years. Mullein leaf may offer antibacterial and antiviral properties.
However, existing research into the possible benefits of mullein leaf has been performed in laboratories. Not enough human studies show the therapeutic effects of this herb.
When considering herbal products such as mullein, bear in mind that quality, purity, and potency standards for dietary supplements can vary greatly.
If you’re interested in mullein leaf, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for guidance on trusted brands, safety, and effectiveness.