Mullein
NameMullein
Scientific NameVerbascum thapsus
Common NamesCommon Mullein, Great Mullein, Aaron's Rod, Flannel Plant, Candlewick Plant
Plant FamilyScrophulariaceae
Natural HabitatNative to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, Mullein is now naturalized worldwide. It thrives in disturbed, dry, and sunny areas such as roadsides, clearings, pastures, and waste grounds.
Parts Usedleaf,flower,root
Medicinal Actionsdemulcent,expectorant,anti-inflammatory,antimicrobial,astringent
Traditional UsesTraditionally, Mullein is highly valued for its respiratory benefits, used to soothe coughs, bronchitis, asthma, and sore throats due to its demulcent and expectorant properties. The flowers infused in oil are a common remedy for earaches, while poultices of the leaves can be applied topically for skin irritations and wounds.
Active ConstituentsSaponins, Mucilage, Flavonoids, Iridoid glycosides, Phenylethanoid glycosides
Preparation Methodsinfusion,decoction,tincture,poultice,salve
Contraindications & WarningsGenerally considered safe. The fine hairs on the leaves can cause skin irritation in some sensitive individuals, and it's recommended to strain infusions well to remove them. No significant drug interactions are widely reported.
Cultivation NotesMullein is easily grown from seed in full sun and well-drained soil. It is a self-seeding biennial that requires minimal care once established, often preferring poor or disturbed soils.
Raritycommon
Description
A robust biennial herb, Mullein forms a large rosette of soft, woolly leaves in its first year. In its second year, it produces a tall, stout flowering stalk densely packed with yellow flowers, which mature into numerous small, round seed capsules.
