Mullein Tea: Health Benefits, Side Effects, and How to Make It

Mullein tea is an herbal beverage that has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for respiratory conditions, including chronic coughs, colds, and asthma. Made from the leaves of the common mullein plant (Verbascum thapsus), this aromatic tea continues to gain popularity among those seeking natural alternatives for supporting their health.

While mullein tea has a long history of traditional use, modern research is beginning to explore its potential health benefits. This comprehensive guide examines what mullein tea is, its potential benefits, possible side effects, and how to prepare it safely at home.

What Is Mullein Tea?

Mullein tea is an herbal infusion made from the dried leaves and sometimes flowers of the mullein plant (Verbascum thapsus). This flowering plant is native to Europe, Africa, and Asia, though it now grows in many parts of North America as well.

The mullein plant is easily recognizable by its tall flower spike, which can reach heights of 6 feet or more, and its large, fuzzy leaves covered in tiny hairs. These leaves have been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years, particularly for treating respiratory ailments.

The tea has a mild, slightly sweet flavor with earthy undertones. Some describe it as having a smooth, pleasant taste that can be enjoyed on its own or enhanced with honey, lemon, or other herbs.

Nutritional Profile of Mullein Leaf

Mullein leaves and flowers contain several beneficial plant compounds that may contribute to its potential health effects. These include:

• Flavonoids: Plant compounds with antioxidant properties
• Saponins: Natural compounds that may have expectorant effects
• Mucilage: A gel-like substance that can coat and soothe mucous membranes
• Iridoid glycosides: Compounds that may have anti-inflammatory properties
• Phenolic acids: Antioxidant compounds that combat oxidative stress

These bioactive compounds work together to produce mullein’s potential therapeutic effects, though more research is needed to fully understand their mechanisms in the human body.

Benefits of Mullein Tea

While much of the research on mullein remains in the early stages, with many studies conducted in test tubes or on animals rather than humans, preliminary findings suggest several potential health benefits. It’s important to note that mullein is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat any medical condition.

May Support Respiratory Health

The most well-known traditional use of mullein tea is for supporting respiratory health. People have historically used mullein to manage conditions affecting the lungs and airways, including:

• Chronic coughs
• Bronchitis
• Asthma symptoms
• Congestion
• Sore throat

Research suggests that mullein may have anti-inflammatory properties that could benefit the respiratory tract. The mucilage content in mullein leaves may help coat and soothe irritated throat tissues and airways, potentially providing relief from coughing and throat discomfort.

A study published in scientific literature found that mullein demonstrated antispasmodic properties in laboratory settings. This means it may help relax muscles that produce spasms, including those in the respiratory tract. However, human research is needed to confirm whether these effects translate to meaningful benefits for people with respiratory conditions.

If you have asthma or any chronic respiratory condition, it’s essential to work with a healthcare provider and follow their recommended treatment plan. Never replace prescribed medications with herbal remedies without medical supervision, as respiratory conditions can quickly become serious.

May Possess Antiviral Properties

Some laboratory studies have investigated mullein’s potential antiviral effects. Test-tube research has found that mullein extract showed activity against certain viruses, including influenza virus and members of the herpes virus family.

One test-tube study found that mullein extract was particularly effective against the influenza virus, while another suggested activity against pseudorabies virus, which belongs to the herpes family.

However, it’s crucial to understand that test-tube studies don’t necessarily predict how a substance will behave in the complex human body. No human clinical trials have confirmed that drinking mullein tea can prevent or treat viral infections.

That said, drinking warm liquids like mullein tea when you’re sick can help you stay hydrated and may provide comfort by soothing your throat, regardless of any specific antiviral properties.

May Offer Antibacterial Effects

Research in laboratory settings suggests that mullein may have antibacterial properties as well. Test-tube studies have found that mullein extract can inhibit the growth of various bacterial strains.

One study found that mullein extract showed activity against Bacillus cereus, a type of bacteria commonly found in soil and sometimes in food. Other research has examined mullein’s effects on bacteria that cause infections, though results have been mixed and inconsistent.

As with the antiviral research, these findings come from laboratory studies, and we don’t yet know if these effects occur in humans who drink mullein tea. More research is needed to determine whether mullein tea has clinically relevant antibacterial properties.

Contains Antioxidant Compounds

Mullein leaves and flowers contain flavonoids and other plant compounds with antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help protect your cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to aging and disease.

A diet rich in antioxidants from various sources, including fruits, vegetables, and herbal teas, may help support overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. However, mullein tea should be viewed as one potential component of a healthy diet rather than a miracle cure.

May Have Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Chronic inflammation is linked to numerous health conditions, including heart disease, arthritis, and certain cancers. The compounds in mullein tea may possess anti-inflammatory properties that could help reduce inflammation in the body.

Some research has suggested that mullein extract may help reduce inflammatory responses, though most of this research has been conducted in laboratory or animal studies. Human research is needed to understand whether drinking mullein tea provides meaningful anti-inflammatory benefits.

Other Potential Benefits

Traditional medicine systems have used mullein for various other purposes, including:

• Supporting digestive health
• Promoting wound healing
• Soothing skin irritations
• Supporting urinary tract health

Some preliminary research has even explored mullein’s potential neuroprotective properties in animal studies. However, these uses have limited scientific evidence, and more research is necessary before any conclusions can be drawn.

Side Effects of Mullein Tea

Mullein tea is generally considered safe for most people when consumed in moderate amounts. However, there are some potential side effects and precautions to be aware of.

Throat Irritation

The mullein plant is covered in tiny, fine hairs. If these hairs aren’t properly filtered out of the tea, they can irritate your throat and cause discomfort. This is why it’s crucial to strain mullein tea thoroughly using a fine mesh strainer, cheesecloth, or coffee filter before drinking.

Skin Sensitivity

Some people may experience skin irritation when handling fresh or dried mullein leaves due to the plant’s tiny hairs. If you’re preparing mullein tea from whole leaves, you may want to wear gloves or wash your hands thoroughly afterward if you have sensitive skin.

Allergic Reactions

Although rare, some individuals may be allergic to mullein. If you experience symptoms such as itching, rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling after consuming mullein tea, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

There is insufficient research on the safety of mullein tea during pregnancy and breastfeeding. If you’re pregnant, nursing, or planning to become pregnant, consult with your healthcare provider before consuming mullein tea or any herbal supplement.

Medication Interactions

While mullein tea doesn’t have many known drug interactions, it’s always wise to discuss herbal remedies with your doctor, especially if you take medications regularly. Some herbs can affect how your body processes certain medications or may have additive effects.

Quality and Contamination Concerns

As with any herbal product, quality can vary significantly between brands. Some mullein products may be contaminated with other plants, pesticides, or heavy metals. Purchase mullein tea from reputable sources and look for products that have been tested for purity and quality.

How to Make Mullein Tea

Making mullein tea at home is simple and straightforward. You can purchase mullein tea in several forms:

• Pre-packaged tea bags
• Dried loose leaves
• Tinctures
• Capsules
• Powdered extract

Some people also grow mullein in their gardens and harvest and dry the leaves themselves.

Basic Mullein Tea Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1-2 tablespoons of dried mullein leaves (or 1 tea bag)
• 8 ounces (240 ml) of boiling water
• Optional: honey, lemon, cinnamon, or other herbs

Instructions:

1. Bring water to a boil in a kettle or pot.
2. Place the dried mullein leaves in a tea infuser, teapot, or directly in your cup.
3. Pour the boiling water over the mullein leaves.
4. Cover and steep for 15-30 minutes. Longer steeping times will produce a stronger tea.
5. Strain the tea thoroughly using a fine mesh strainer, cheesecloth, or coffee filter to remove all plant material and tiny hairs.
6. Add honey, lemon, or other flavorings if desired.
7. Enjoy while warm.

Dosage Recommendations

There is no standardized dosage for mullein tea, as it’s not an FDA-approved medication. Traditional use typically involves drinking 1-3 cups of mullein tea per day. However, it’s best to start with a smaller amount to see how your body responds.

If you’re using mullein for the first time, try starting with half a cup and gradually increase the amount if you tolerate it well and don’t experience any adverse effects.

Tips for Better-Tasting Mullein Tea

While mullein tea has a mild, pleasant flavor on its own, you can enhance it by:

• Adding a teaspoon of raw honey for sweetness and additional throat-soothing properties
• Squeezing fresh lemon juice for brightness and vitamin C
• Adding a cinnamon stick for warmth and flavor
• Mixing with other herbal teas like peppermint or chamomile
• Adding fresh ginger for additional respiratory support

Where to Buy Mullein Tea

Mullein tea is available at many locations:

• Health food stores
• Natural grocery stores
• Online retailers
• Herbal medicine shops
• Some regular grocery stores in the tea or supplement section

When purchasing mullein tea, look for products that:

• List mullein (Verbascum thapsus) as the main ingredient
• Come from reputable manufacturers
• Are certified organic, if possible, to avoid pesticides
• Have been tested for quality and purity
• Provide clear information about sourcing and processing

Growing and Harvesting Your Own Mullein

If you’re interested in growing your own mullein for tea, it’s relatively easy to cultivate. Mullein is a biennial plant, meaning it completes its life cycle over two years.

In the first year, mullein produces a rosette of large, fuzzy leaves close to the ground. In the second year, it sends up a tall flower spike. You can harvest leaves from first or second-year plants.

Harvesting tips:

• Harvest leaves in the morning after the dew has dried
• Choose healthy, green leaves without spots or damage
• Use gloves if you have sensitive skin
• Leave some leaves on the plant so it can continue growing

Drying instructions:

• Lay leaves in a single layer on a screen or drying rack
• Place in a warm, dry location with good air circulation
• Keep out of direct sunlight to preserve compounds
• Turn leaves occasionally for even drying
• Leaves are fully dried when they crumble easily (usually 1-2 weeks)
• Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place

Make sure you can accurately identify mullein before harvesting from the wild, as some plants may look similar. When in doubt, purchase from a reliable source rather than foraging.

Mullein Tea vs. Other Forms of Mullein

While this article focuses on mullein tea, mullein is available in several other forms, each with different uses:

Mullein Tincture

A tincture is a concentrated liquid extract made by soaking mullein in alcohol. Tinctures are more concentrated than tea and are typically taken in small doses (a few drops to a dropperful) mixed with water.

Mullein Capsules

Dried mullein leaf is available in capsule form for those who prefer not to drink tea or want a standardized dose. Capsules are convenient but may not provide the same soothing effects on the throat as warm tea.

Mullein Oil

Mullein-infused oil is used topically or as ear drops for ear infections, though the evidence for this use is limited. This is different from mullein tea and should not be consumed orally.

Mullein Smoking Blend

Some people smoke dried mullein leaves as an alternative to tobacco or to support respiratory health. However, smoking any substance can irritate the lungs and is generally not recommended by health professionals.

Scientific Research on Mullein

While mullein has a long history of traditional use, scientific research on its effects in humans is still limited. Most studies have been conducted in test tubes or on animals, which don’t always translate to effects in humans.

The human body is far more complex than laboratory conditions, and many factors can influence whether a compound that shows promise in a petri dish will actually work when consumed as tea.

More rigorous clinical trials with human participants are needed to:

• Confirm mullein’s potential health benefits
• Determine optimal dosages
• Identify potential side effects and interactions
• Understand how mullein compounds are absorbed and metabolized
• Compare mullein’s effectiveness to standard treatments

Until more research is available, mullein tea should be viewed as a complementary approach rather than a replacement for conventional medical treatment.

When to See a Doctor

While mullein tea is generally safe, certain symptoms require professional medical attention. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

• A cough that lasts more than three weeks
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Coughing up blood
• High fever (above 103°F or 39.4°C)
• Wheezing that doesn’t improve
• Symptoms that worsen despite home treatment

Never use mullein tea or any herbal remedy as a substitute for emergency medical care or prescribed medications without consulting your healthcare provider first.

The Bottom Line

Mullein tea is an herbal beverage made from the leaves of the Verbascum thapsus plant. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, particularly for respiratory conditions like coughs, colds, and asthma.

While preliminary research suggests that mullein contains compounds with potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties, most studies have been conducted in laboratory settings rather than in humans. More research is needed to confirm these potential benefits and determine optimal dosages.

Mullein tea is generally safe for most people when properly prepared, with minimal side effects. The most important precaution is to strain the tea thoroughly to remove the plant’s tiny hairs, which can irritate your throat.

If you’re interested in trying mullein tea, start with small amounts and pay attention to how your body responds. While it may provide some benefits, particularly for soothing throat irritation and supporting hydration during illness, it should complement rather than replace conventional medical care.

As with any herbal supplement, consult with a healthcare provider before using mullein tea regularly, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, have chronic health conditions, or take medications. Your doctor can help you determine whether mullein tea is appropriate for your individual health needs and circumstances.

Sources:

• National Center for Biotechnology Information – Ethnobotanical Uses of Verbascum
• PubMed – Pharmacological Properties of Verbascum thapsus
• National Center for Biotechnology Information – Antispasmodic Properties Study
• PubMed – Antibacterial Properties of Mullein Extract
• National Center for Biotechnology Information – Antiviral Activity Study
• National Center for Biotechnology Information – Neuroprotective Properties Research