Mullein Leaf (Verbascum thapsus)

Dried leaf of Verbascum thapsus, commonly called Common Mullein or Great Mullein. A tall biennial plant native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, mullein has been used in Western herbalism for over 2,000 years, particularly in connection with respiratory support.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Verbascum thapsus

Family

Scrophulariaceae

Common names

Common Mullein, Great Mullein, Cowboy Toilet Paper, Beggar's Blanket

Native region

Europe, Asia, North Africa; naturalized across North America

Studied compounds

Iridoid glycosides (aucubin), saponins, flavonoids, mucilage

Traditional use

Respiratory support, smoking blends, ear preparations

What is Mullein?

Mullein is a tall flowering plant that produces a distinctive yellow flower spike in its second year. The leaves are large, fuzzy, and silvery-gray. Mullein has been documented in Western herbalism since ancient Greek and Roman times, primarily for respiratory support. The plant is so common across Europe and North America that it has accumulated dozens of folk names referencing its various uses (including the colloquial "Cowboy Toilet Paper" for the soft leaves).

How to Use Mullein

The traditional respiratory use is a tea: steep one to two teaspoons per cup in hot water for 10 minutes, then strain through cheesecloth or a fine filter (the fine hairs on mullein leaves can be irritating to the throat if not filtered out). Mullein is also a traditional smoking herb, often as a base for herbal smoking blends due to its smooth, mild smoke.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mullein used for?
Mullein has been used in Western herbalism for respiratory support since ancient Greek and Roman times. The leaf is the most commonly used part.

Can Mullein be smoked?
Yes; mullein is a traditional smoking herb, often used as a base for herbal smoking blends. Its smoke is generally smooth and mild.

Why filter the tea?
The fine hairs on mullein leaves can be irritating to the throat if not filtered out. Use cheesecloth, a coffee filter, or a fine mesh strainer.

What's the difference between Mullein Leaf and Mullein Flowers?
Both are from the same plant; flowers are sometimes used in specialty preparations like mullein-infused oil for ear use. Leaves are more common in respiratory tea.

How much mullein for tea?
One to two teaspoons of cut leaf per 8 oz cup. Steep 10 minutes; strain through fine filter.

Is Mullein safe for daily use?
Mullein is generally considered safe for regular use within typical herbal quantities.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.