Mullein
OTHER NAME(S): common mullein, flannel plant, gordolobos, mullein, velvet plant, Verbascum thapsus, woolly mullein
Overview
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is a plant that is used for various reasons, although its benefits are not well defined. It is available over-the-counter as a supplement. Mullein seems to be well tolerated, but it has not been studied enough to know what side effects it may cause. Before using mullein, tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any medicines or supplements you may be using.
Uses
What is mullein used for?
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is commonly used for sore throat, cough, and wound healing, but its benefits are not well defined.
Note: The FDA has not reviewed mullein for safety and effectiveness. Learn more about dietary supplements here.
How does mullein work (mechanism of action)?
Mullein is a plant called Verbascum thapsus. Dietary supplements that contain mullein are usually made from the flower of the plant. Mullein has a long history of use in traditional Spanish medicine.
Mullein contains many different chemicals that may have effects in the body. One of these chemicals, called verbascoside, may have effects that can help reduce pain and swelling (inflammation). But these effects have only been shown in a lab. The effects of mullein in the human body are not well defined. Although it is used for various reasons, it is not clear if it works for any purpose.
Herbal products like mullein naturally contain many different chemicals. The amounts of each chemical in a specific mullein product may vary. Some, none, or all of these chemicals may have effects on the body. These effects may change depending on how much of each chemical is found in the product you are using.
How should I store mullein?
You should store mullein according to the product label. Most dietary supplements should be kept in a cool, dry location that is out of the reach of children and pets and not in direct sunlight.
Side Effects
What are the most common side effects of mullein?
Mullein seems to be well tolerated. But there is not enough research to know what the common side effects may be. Tell your health care provider if you have any side effects that bother you.
There may be side effects of mullein that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a supplement. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.safetyreporting.hhs.gov or by calling 888-SAFEFOOD (888-723-3366). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.
What are the serious side effects of mullein?
While less common, the most serious side effects of mullein are described below, along with what to do if they happen.
Severe Allergic Reactions. Mullein may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using mullein and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.
- Breathing problems or wheezing
- Racing heart
- Fever or general ill feeling
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
- Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
- Itching or skin rash
- Bumps on the skin called hives that can be red, pink, white, or brown depending on your skin tone
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
- Stomach cramps
- Joint pain
Precautions
Who should not use mullein?
Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use mullein.
- Mullein
- Verbascum thapsus
- Any of the ingredients in the specific product
Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific mullein products they stock.
What should I know about mullein before using it?
Mullein is a dietary supplement. It cannot be marketed to treat or cure a disease.
Read and follow the directions on the specific product you are using, or use it as recommended by your health care provider.
Keep mullein out of the reach of children.
Herbal products, such as mullein, naturally contain many different chemicals. The amount of each chemical in a specific mullein product can change for many reasons, including the area where the plant was grown, the weather during growth, the time of year when it was harvested, and the way the plant was processed after being harvested. If you switch to a new bottle or a different brand, you may not have the same effects or side effects because of this variability. Talk to your health care provider if you have questions or concerns.
Mullein is available in many different forms, including as a tea, liquid extract, or dried ground powder placed into tablets or capsules. It is also sometimes added to creams, oils, or ointments that are applied to the skin. Each of these forms may contain different amounts of the chemicals naturally found in the plant.
Mullein products may be made from different parts of the plant. For example, mullein supplements are usually made from the flower of the plant. But some people apply the leaf to the skin or use it to wrap wounds. The flower and the leaf contain different chemicals that may have different effects on the body. It is important to read the label to confirm which part of the plant was used to make that product.
The FDA has not tested mullein products to confirm that they contain the ingredients stated on their labels. Some dietary supplements have been tested by third-party organizations to confirm that they contain the ingredients listed on their labels and do not contain any harmful chemicals. Learn more about how to choose a safe dietary supplement product here.
What should I tell my health care provider before using mullein?
Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if mullein is right for you.
In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.
Pregnancy. It is not known if or how mullein could affect pregnancy or harm a fetus. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
Breastfeeding. It is not known if mullein passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.
Interactions
Does mullein interact with foods or drinks?
There are no known interactions between mullein and foods or drinks.
It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect mullein.
Does mullein interact with medicines (drug interactions)?
Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.
The interactions between mullein and medicines are not fully understood. As with most dietary supplements, the research on drug interactions with mullein is incomplete. Always check with your health care provider before using mullein with any medicines.
Dosing
What should I do if I accidentally use too much mullein?
If you or someone else has used too much mullein, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.
Most mullein supplements contain the flower of the plant, but the mullein leaf may also be used by some people for various reasons. Read the product label closely and speak to a health care provider about how to use mullein safely. Do not use double or extra doses, even if you miss a dose.
References
- BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies: "The effect of the Verbascum Thapsus on episiotomy wound healing in nulliparous women: a randomized controlled trial."
- European Medicines Agency: “Verbasci flos - herbal medicinal product.”
- Gardner, Z; McGuffin, M. Botanical Safety Handbook (Second Edition), American Herbal Products Association, 2013.