where can you find mullein

There are various different species of mullein, including:

• Verbascum thapsis | common variety, widespread around the world.
• Verbascum thapsis crassifolium | found in the Mediterranean region and in southwestern Austria.
• Verbascum thapsis giganteum | found throughout Spain.
• Verbascum phlomoides | orange variety, native to Europe.
• Verbascum densiflorum | large-flowered variety from Europe.

Full Answer

What is a mullein plant?

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 ).

Where to look for mullein?

Look for mullein in natural areas such as dry pastures, meadows, and open forest areas. It is also common in disturbed areas such as road cuts and edges, along railways, and industrial areas. Not exclusively but in general, mullein is found in gravelly and sandy soil situations.

Where can I buy mullein tea?

You can find prepackaged mullein tea bags, extracts, capsules, tinctures, and dried leaves at many health stores, as well as online. What’s more, many people grow mullein in their garden and dry the leaves on their own.

Where do mullein trees grow in the US?

Where the Plant is Found Mullein is found throughout North America including Canada, Mexico, and all US states including Alaska and Hawaii. Moreover, it grows at elevations from sea level to up to 10,000 feet. Mullein prefers disturbed low-quality sites that are well-draining.

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Is mullein good for your lungs?

Mullein has been used traditionally as a remedy for the respiratory tract, including bronchitis. It works as an expectorant, meaning it helps expel mucus. Expectorant herbs help loosen bronchial secretions and make elimination of mucus easier.

What does mullein tea taste like?

Mullein tea is known to have a refreshing, rich, and aromatic flavor profile. It is somewhat similar to a light peppermint herbal tea in taste. You can brew mullein tea with both the leaves and flowers of the mullein plant.

Where does great mullein grow?

Verbascum thapsus, the great mullein, greater mullein or common mullein is a species of mullein native to Europe, northern Africa, and Asia, and introduced in the Americas and Australia. It is a hairy biennial plant that can grow to 2 m tall or more.

How does mullein make you feel?

Mullein is an expectorant, which means it helps the body expel excess mucus, usually by helping make your coughs more productive, to bring up mucus that may be settling in the chest or in the throat. It is also a demulcent. Studies show that demulcents create a soothing anti-inflammatory coating over mucous membranes.

Does mullein have side effects?

Side effects Some species of mullein may cause contact dermatitis , a skin reaction that can cause itching, rash, and irritation. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergic reactions, be sure to do a patch skin test before using mullein on your skin.

What is the best way to use mullein for lungs?

0:352:28How to Detox and Cleanse Your Lungs with Mullein - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe most practical way to consume mullein is as an herbal tea. Or you can add a few drops ofMoreThe most practical way to consume mullein is as an herbal tea. Or you can add a few drops of concentrated extract to other beverages as well with that said this herb is sold in oil powder elixir.

Where does mullein grow in the US?

HABITAT IN THE UNITED STATES Intolerant of shade, mullein will grow in almost any open area including natural meadows and forest openings as well as neglected pastures, road cuts, industrial areas.

Does mullein grow in the US?

Today common mullein is distributed throughout the U.S. and Canada wherever the growing season is at least 140 days and rainfall is sufficient (50-150 cm), especially on dry sandy soils.

Is mullein toxic to dogs?

Seek the advice of a holistic veterinarian if there are any questions. Note: Keep mullein away from any aquatic animals like fish and amphibians; it's toxic to them.

Is mullein a narcotic?

Louise Tenney writes, 'Mullein is called a natural wonder herb with narcotic properties, without being habit forming or poisonous.

Is mullein good for joint pain?

Skeletal System. Mullein leaf is very useful as a poultice over swollen and painful joints. It has also been used internally to address a direct injury to the nervous system such as a spinal injury.

Is mullein good for kidneys?

Mullein, Mule tail, or Kidney medicine is traditionally used as a root and flower tea for kidney dysfunction. The root and leaves are also made into a tea to help with female menstrual cycles.

Is mullein tea bitter?

Many claim that mullein tea has a sweet flavor. However, a few dispute this claim by stating it's bitter and unpleasant. The overall taste of mullein tea depends on whether your dried tea has been made from the leaves, roots, or flowers.

How do you make mullein tea taste good?

Steep the mullein leaves in hot water inside a tea ball or strainer for 15 minutes. Add honey if you like a sweeter tea. If the flavor of mullein doesn't agree with you, another great way to reap its benefits is by preparing an inhalant.

What are the benefits of drinking mullein tea?

Mullein Tea Drinking tea from this yellow flowered plant helps to relieve issues like sore throat, cough, colds, hoarseness and bronchitis. Some even use it to ease digestive complains like diarrhea and joint pain. To make the tea, the leaves are simply simmered in boiling water and then strained.

Is mullein tea good for smokers?

Because of it's light texture, Mullein burns slowly and evenly and has a very discreet flavor making it a great rolling filler for recreative smokers.

What is Mullein?

Mullein is a biennial plant in the Scrophulariaceae (i.e. figwart) family. It was originally native to Europe and Asia, but it can now be found growing wild throughout the United States and much of the rest of the world.

Benefits of Mullein

There are many purported health benefits of mullein. Most of the scientific research on this herb has been done via test-tube research or animal studies, there are only a handful of human clinical trials.

Mullein Herb Safety

The Botanical Safety Handbook puts mullein in the safety class of 1, meaning it can be safely used when appropriately consumed.

Herb Sustainability

Mullein is a fast-spreading plant that grows throughout the world. As such, there are no concerns in regards to the sustainability of this plant.

Naming & Taxonomy

Mullein’s scientific name is Verbascum thapsis. It’s a biennial plant that belongs to the Scrophulariaceae family of plants.

History & Traditional Use

The leaves and the flower of mullein have been used as medicine since ancient times.

Why do people take mullein?

Some people take mullein by mouth for breathing conditions such as cough or asthma, pneumonia, colds, and sore throat. But there is limited scientific research to support these and other uses. In manufacturing, mullein is used as a flavoring ingredient in alcoholic beverages.

Is Mullein safe for pregnant women?

Pregnancy and breast -feeding: There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking mullein if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Does Mullein help with infections?

The chemicals in mullein might be able to fight infections , but more research is needed.

Is Mullein safe to take?

Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.

Is mullein safe for bronchitis?

More evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of mullein for these uses. Side Effects. Mullein is POSSIBLY SAFE when applied directly to the ear, short-term. A specific product that contains mullein, garlic, calendula, and St. John’s wort has been used in the ear for up to 3 days.

What Is Mullein Used For?

Certain compounds in mullein's leaves and flowers are thought to act as a demulcent , which is a substance that relieves irritation in the body's mucus membranes such as the nose, mouth, and throat. A mullein treatment may also work as an expectorant , which is what a common cough medicine is. Expectorants thin out and loosen phlegm, breaking up congestion associated with a cold or other respiratory problem.

How long can you use mullein in your ears?

However, in studies, a specific product that contains mullein, garlic, calendula, and St. John’s wort has been used in the ear for up to three days. The correct dose for you may depend on factors including your age, gender, body weight, and medical condition. Speak with a healthcare provider to get personalized advice.

What are the benefits of Mullein leaves?

Health Benefits. Certain compounds in mullein's leaves and flowers are thought to act as demulcents or expectorants. Demulcents are substances that calm irritation or inflammation in the skin or internal parts of the nose, mouth, or throat. Expectorants are agents for stimulating the production or secretion of phlegm.

Can you take mullein with ear drops?

Tinctures, capsules, lozenges, powders, and ear drops containing mullein are found in many health food stores. Due to the limited research, it's too soon to recommend mullein as a treatment for any condition. If you're considering using it, talk to your doctor to weigh the potential risks and benefits.

Is Mullein safe to take?

Although there are no known adverse effects associated with the use of mullein, it's important to educa te yourself about supplement safety before using any herb.

Does mullein help with ear pain?

In a 2003 study of 171 children with otalgia (ear pain or an earache), those who used ear drops containing mullein (along with garlic, Calendula, St. John's wort, lavender, vitamin E, and olive oil) had a statistically significant improvement in ear pain over the course of three days. In fact, those who were given ear drops alone had a better response than those who were given ear drops together with amoxicillin.

How long has Mullein been around?

Mullein has been around for thousands of years . Its leaves and flowers have been used for several conditions, including cough and other respiratory conditions.

How many species of Mullein are there?

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.

What is Mullein oil used for?

Mullein oil is extracted from the flower or leaves of the plant. The oil is used as a remedy for earaches, eczema, and some other skin conditions. One older study. Trusted Source. showed some benefit for ear pain based on a trial of 171 children between 5 and 18 years old with an ear infection.

When was Mullein last reviewed?

Last medically reviewed on March 13, 2020.

When did Mullein become popular?

By the late 1800s, mullein became a popular treatment for people with tuberculosis in Europe, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

Can you take Mullein leaf while pregnant?

There’s no information on safety for use during pregnancy, while breastfeeding, or in infants and very young children. Talk to your doctor before considering mullein leaf if any of these apply to you. Bacterial or viral infections can pose serious health risks.

Is mullein leaf safe for a virus?

Bacterial or viral infections can pose serious health risks. Before self-treating these infections with mullein leaf, consult your doctor . If you have any serious chronic health conditions, talk to your doctor about the safety of mullein leaf for you.

Nutrition information

Refer to the product label for full dietary information, which may be available as an alternative product image.

Product details

Enjoy a refreshing hot beverage with Mullein Leaf Bleach-Free Tea Bags from Buddha Teas. It is certified USDA organic. The delicious drink is made from the mullein plant. This herb has a unique appearance that has earned it a host of colorful nicknames, including the Candlewick Plant, Candelaria and Jacob's Staff.

What is Mullein weed?

Mullein is known botanically as Verbascum thapus. It has soft fuzzy leaves as well as gorgeous yellow flowers towering at the top. For a “weed” it has amazing medicinal benefits and practical uses that have been utilized for centuries.

How tall does Mullein grow?

Today I want to teach you about mullein, a common plant that grows pretty tall, about 6 or 7 feet. Mullein is known botanically as Verbascum thapus.

What is Mullein root good for?

7 Benefits of Mullein Root. Mullein root has numerous benefits that make it worth keeping around, including the following. Relieve Ear Aches. Thanks to mullein’s strong anti-inflammatory effect, it can help with ear aches and infections. Research from over a decade ago revealed that little fact.

Does mullein tea help with cough?

If there’s a smoker in your house, and you get a dry cough from smoking, or second-hand smoke, mullein tea could be useful, simply because it’s a natural demulcent. FYI, smokers need extra Vitamin C.

Does Mullein help with allergies?

Of course, with any herb, there could be allergies so I’m not saying this is right for everyone. May Reduce Goiter. Mullein is a strong anti-inflammatory and has been studied for its effect in reducing glandular inflammation of the thyroid.

Does Mullein leaf help with back pain?

Mullein leaf can make a difference for painful aches and joints, and even mild back pain just because it is lubricating. The herb contains compounds that are lubricating to the synovial joints and tissue. This hydrating effect on the spine, joints and cartilage can have a soothing effect on mild injuries.

Is Mullein a good plant?

Mullein is a bountiful plant, it grows in soils that are not very welcoming and it still blossoms beautifully giving us a sight to behold and many incredible benefits. For one thing, it’s incredibly relaxing, and it has a strong anti-inflammatory effect, so much so, it has been used on painful joints, inflamed goiters and skin wounds.

What is Mullein tea?

Mullein tea is a flavorful beverage that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including chronic coughs, colds, and asthma ( 1. Trusted Source. , 2. Trusted Source. , 3.

How much does Mullein extract help with ear pain?

This 3-day study, which used ear drops that contained mullein alongside several other herbal extracts 3 times daily, reduced ear pain by 93%, on average. However, it’s unclear to what extent this effect was due to mullein extract versus other herbs used in the ear drops ( 14 ).

Can mullein tea cause skin irritation?

Most people can enjoy mullein tea safely with minimal risk of adverse effects. Yet, the mullein plant may cause skin irritation for some people, so be sure to exercise caution if you’re handling the herb directly ( 15. Trusted Source.

Does mullein tea help with bacteria?

Mullein tea may offer antibacterial effects as well. ). Another test-tube study noted that mullein extract reduced the growth of certain types of bacteria that cause infections, such as E. coli and Streptococcus pyogenes ( 12 ). ).

Can you make Mullein tea with dried leaves?

Mullein tea is easy to make with dried leaves or a teabag, though you should be sure to strain the leaves.

Does Mullein extract help with pseudorabies?

Other test-tube studies show that mullein extract may also fight pseudorabies, a virus in the herpes family ( 8, 9 ).

Can you drink Mullein tea?

Most people can enjoy mullein tea safely with minimal risk of adverse effects.

How To Prepare Mullein For Smoking

Several things go into making mullein palatable for smoking. The first thing you should note about smoking mullein is. If you smoke it completely dry, you are going to get a really lousy smoke. Therefore, what you want to do is to rub the dried mullein between your fingers to make it fluffy and fuzzy.

Benefits of Smoking Mullein

Since ancient Greece, mullein has been used to cure various respiratory issues, like bronchitis and asthma. In fact, different cultures, from Native America to Europe have been using mullein to treat various respiratory illnesses.

Can Mullein Help With Smoking Cessation?

Research has proven quitting smoking cigarettes is one of the best decisions you can make for your health. However, quitting smoking cold turkey is not the best choice if you want the best chances for success. Smoking mullein can help you with smoking cessation, particularly, because of its expectorant properties.

Best Herbal Blends To Smoke With Mullein

If you wish to buy mullein for smoking. You most definitely want to try some of the herbal blends that we have in our collection that contain mullein.

When was Mullein first introduced?

Common mullein was first introduced into the U.S. in the mid-1700 's, where it was used as a piscicide, or fish poison, in Virginia. It quickly spread throughout the U.S. and is well established throughout the eastern states. Records show that it was first described in Michigan in 1839 and on the Pacific coast in 1876, probably due to multiple introductions as a medicinal herb.

How long does Mullein grow?

Common mullein can be found where mean annual precipitation is greater than 3-6 inches and the growing season lasts for a minimum of 140 days. Intolerant of shade, mullein will grow in almost any open area including natural meadows and forest openings as well as neglected pastures, road cuts, industrial areas. Common mullein prefers, but is not limited to, dry sandy soils.

What are some alternatives to Mullein?

In the eastern U.S., common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca), butterflyweed (Asclepias tuberosa), joe-pye weed (Eupatorium dubium), black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia fulgida), and Ironweed (Vernonia noveboracensis), are just a few of the many selections. You may wish to contact your local native plant society for further suggestions.

How tall do mullein plants grow?

Mature flowering plants are produced the second year, and grow to 5 to 10 feet in height, including the conspicuous flowering stalk. The five-petaled yellow flowers are arranged in a leafy spike and bloom a few at a time from June-August. Leaves alternate along the flowering stalks and are much larger toward the base of the plant. The tiny seeds are pitted and rough with wavy ridges and deep grooves and can germinate after lying dormant in the soil for several decades.

What insect is responsible for destroying Mullein seeds?

Department of Agriculture to be specific to mullein, has been introduced to North America. The weevil larvae matures in the seed capsules and can destroy up to 50% of the seeds. Another agent, the mullein moth (Cucullia verbasci) has been tested in the U.S. and is considered to be a relatively safe control agent because of its consistent feeding and

Why are Mullein plants pulled?

This is an extremely effective method of reducing populations and seed productivity, especially if plant is pulled before seed set. If blooms or seed capsules are present, reproductive structures should be removed, bagged, and properly disposed of in a sanitary landfill. Care should be taken, however, to minimize soil disturbance since loose soil will facilitate mullein seed germination.

Is Mullein a perennial?

Common mullein is a monocarpic perennial (i.e., takes two or more years to flower and die). Brought over from Europe by settlers, it was used as a medicinal herb, as a remedy for coughs and diarrhea and a respiratory stimulant for the lungs when smoked. A methanol extract from common mullein has been used as an insecticide for mosquito larvae.

What Is Mullein Used for?

Possible Side Effects

Dosage and Preparations

What to Look For

• Tinctures, capsules, lozenges, powders, and ear drops containing mullein are found in many health food stores. Due to the limited research, it's too soon to recommend mullein as a treatment for any condition. If you're considering using it, talk to your healthcare provider to weigh the potential risks and benefits. Keep in mind that alternative med...

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Summary