Mullein (Verbascum densiflorum): Benefits, Uses, and Traditional Remedies

Mullein (Verbascum densiflorum) is a tall wild herb easily recognized by its soft, fuzzy leaves and bright yellow flowers. It has been used for centuries in traditional herbal medicine across Europe, Asia, and North America. Nearly every part of the plant — including the leaves, flowers, and roots — offers health-supporting properties.

Mullein is best known for its powerful support of the respiratory system, especially the lungs and airways. However, its benefits go far beyond breathing support. From skin care and digestion to relaxation and immune health, mullein has earned a strong reputation as a gentle yet effective herbal remedy.

Below are 63 benefits of mullein, explained in simple and easy-to-understand language.

63 Health Benefits of Mullein

Respiratory & Lung Support

1. Helps loosen and clear mucus from the lungs

2. Naturally soothes coughing

3. Relieves sore and irritated throats

4. Supports people with asthma

5. Reduces chest congestion

6. Helps calm bronchitis symptoms

7. Reduces inflammation in the lungs

8. Eases dry, irritating coughs

9. Supports recovery from colds

10. Provides comfort during flu symptoms

11. Supports people recovering from pneumonia

12. Helps smokers breathe more easily

13. Soothes irritated airways

14. Acts as a gentle lung cleanser

15. Reduces wheezing

16. Helps open blocked airways

17. Supports long-term lung strength

18. May ease shortness of breath

19. Helps reduce symptoms of seasonal allergies

20. Provides relief from sinus infections

21. Reduces throat dryness

22. Supports overall respiratory health

Ear, Skin & Inflammation Support

23. Soothes earaches when used as oil

24. Fights certain bacteria

25. Helps reduce swelling

26. Calms skin rashes

27. Soothes eczema-prone skin

28. Speeds healing of minor wounds

29. Reduces itching

30. Helps relieve insect bites

31. Can ease mild burns

32. Softens rough or dry skin

33. May help reduce hemorrhoid discomfort

Pain Relief & Relaxation

34. Acts as a mild natural pain reliever

35. Can reduce joint pain

36. Supports sore or tired muscles

37. Helps relax the body

38. Promotes better sleep

39. Supports a calm, balanced mind

40. Helps reduce mild stress and tension

Immune, Urinary & Digestive Support

41. Supports immune system function

42. Helps the body recover from colds more quickly

43. Eases discomfort from mild fevers

44. Acts as a gentle diuretic

45. Supports healthy kidney function

46. Helps soothe bladder irritation

47. Supports urinary tract health

48. Aids digestion gently

49. Helps calm stomach cramps

50. Reduces mild constipation

51. Supports liver health

52. May help reduce fluid retention

53. Supports natural body cleansing

Circulation, Hormones & Overall Health

54. Provides antioxidants that protect cells

55. Supports healthy circulation

56. May reduce low-grade inflammation

57. Can help ease menstrual cramps

58. Supports overall women’s health

59. May help balance hormones

60. Soothes tired or strained eyes (as a compress)

61. Helps protect skin from infections

62. May reduce dandruff

63. Supports scalp and hair health

Homemade Ways to Use Mullein

1. Mullein Tea for Lung Support

• Use 1–2 teaspoons of dried mullein leaves or flowers

• Pour over 1 cup of hot water

• Steep for 10–15 minutes

• Strain very well to remove tiny hairs

• Drink warm to help with coughs, mucus, colds, and asthma

2. Strong Tea for Chest Congestion

• Use 2 tablespoons of dried leaves in 2 cups of water

• Simmer for 20 minutes

• Strain thoroughly

• Drink 2–3 times daily to loosen mucus and open airways

3. Mullein Flower Tea

• Flowers are milder and slightly sweet

• Steep 1 teaspoon of dried flowers in hot water for 10 minutes

• Helpful for sore throats, colds, and relaxation

4. Mullein Oil for Earaches

• Fill a jar with dried mullein flowers

• Cover with olive oil

• Let sit in a warm place for 2–3 weeks (or gently heat for 1–2 hours)

• Strain and store in a dark glass bottle

• Use 2–3 drops in the ear only if the eardrum is not damaged

5. Mullein Oil for Skin

• Apply the same flower oil to rashes, eczema, insect bites, or minor burns

• Helps calm irritation and itching

6. Steam Inhalation

• Add dried mullein leaves to boiling water

• Lean over the pot with a towel over your head

• Inhale steam for 10 minutes

• Helpful for sinus congestion and blocked nasal passages

7. Mullein Tincture

• Fill a jar halfway with dried leaves or flowers

• Cover with vodka or another strong alcohol

• Store in a dark place for 4–6 weeks, shaking occasionally

• Strain and store in a dropper bottle

• Take 10–20 drops in water, 2–3 times daily

8. Poultice for Skin Issues

• Crush fresh leaves or soften dried leaves with hot water

• Apply to wounds, burns, or hemorrhoids

• Leave for 20–30 minutes, then rinse gently

9. Gargle for Sore Throat

• Prepare a strong mullein tea

• Allow it to cool slightly

• Gargle several times a day to reduce pain and swelling

10. Mullein Foot Bath

• Add dried leaves or flowers to hot water

• Soak feet for 15–20 minutes

• Helps reduce swelling, irritation, and fatigue

11. Eye Compress

• Make a light tea from mullein flowers

• Soak a clean cloth or cotton pads

• Place over closed eyes for 10 minutes

12. Traditional Mullein Smoke (Historical Use)

• Dried leaves were traditionally smoked in small amounts

• Used historically for asthma or lung issues

• Not recommended for regular use today

13. Mullein Honey

• Layer fresh mullein flowers in a jar

• Cover with raw honey

• Let sit for 1–2 weeks

• Take by spoon for coughs or sore throats

14. Mullein Vinegar

• Fill a jar with fresh leaves

• Cover with apple cider vinegar

• Steep for 3–4 weeks, then strain

• Can be used as a scalp rinse for dandruff

15. Mullein Syrup

• Simmer mullein flowers in water for 15 minutes

• Strain and add honey

• Store in the refrigerator

• Take by spoon for coughs, colds, or bronchitis
  
  

Final Thoughts

Mullein (Verbascum densiflorum) is a versatile and time-tested herbal remedy valued for its support of the lungs, skin, immune system, and overall wellness. Whether used as tea, oil, syrup, or poultice, mullein offers gentle yet effective support when prepared properly. Its long history in traditional medicine reflects its usefulness as a natural ally for everyday health.

Disclaimer

This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Mullein should not replace professional medical treatment. Always consult a healthcare provider before using mullein if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication, or managing a medical condition. Some individuals may be sensitive to the plant’s fine hairs, so teas should always be carefully strained. Use responsibly and in moderation.