MULLEIN

Common mullein is a renowned herb that is found all over Europe, in temperate Asia, in North America and is famous due to its medicinal features. This medical herb has more than 200 species and consists of various chemical components like flavonoids, saponins, iridoid and phenylethanoid glycosides, vitamin C and minerals. It is well-reputed in several communities worldwide for the treatment of various diseases of both humans and animal aliments. A number of pharmacological activities such as antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral etc. have been attributed to this plant. Mullein is also used to treat tuberculosis as well as bronchitis. It is also applied to the skin for wounds, burns, bruises, frostbites, hemorrhoids, and skin infections. The leaves are used topically to protect and soften the skin.

Benefits of Mullein

Keeps Respiratory Health Well-maintained

With restful, expectorant and bearer properties, mullein flowers and leaves are rich in saponins which are thought to be liable for the capable respiratory advantages of this herb. They also contain mucilage which soothes and coats irritated mucus membranes, whilst their expectorant qualities help to banish congestion from the lungs. According to research, mullein is a cross between the demulcents and saponin-bearing expectorants, which makes it efficient in extinguishing conditions such as bronchitis with a persistent cough, dry hacking coughs, flu, colds, and sinusitis. The saponins held within mullein also indicate anti-viral properties, further adding to its effectiveness against flu and other troubles caused by viruses. It can also help to cleanse and soothe the bronchial tubes and strengthen the lungs.

Anti-inflammatory Properties

Mullein contains a compound called verbascoside which has a proven anti-inflammatory action and is specifically helpful in easing muscle and joint pain. Oxidative stress is a well-known cause of inflammation, and verbascoside has been shown in clinical research to lessen the production of superoxide radicals. Mullein particularly reduces the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase and extra-cellular O2, decreasing the production of superoxide radicals, which are specially increased during the inflammatory action caused by oxidative stress.

Antibacterial Properties

Studies show that mullein possesses mighty antibacterial abilities, with researchers at Clemson University in South Carolina showing that it is effective against Klebsiella pneumonia, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and E coli. This ability makes it helpful for disinfecting wounds, soothing burns and treating haemorrhoids. Whilst pneumonia is a grave disease that should always be treated by qualified health professionals, using mullein during respiratory flu can assist to keep the lungs clear and may prevent pneumonia from setting in.

Tackles Ear Infections

One of the most well-known herbal remedies for ear infections and earache, mullein flowers are normally infused in olive oil and garlic to treat this uneasy distress. The astringent, antibacterial and anti-fungal activities of mullein combined with garlic can help to get rid of middle and outer ear infections. In 2001, “The Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine” revealed a study concluding that Mullein eardrops were uniformly effective as anesthetic eardrops. Another research including 171 children conducted in 2003 established that those who used eardrops containing mullein had a statistically effective improvement in ear pain over the course of three days. It was also noticed that the children who were given the eardrops alone had a better reaction than those treated with the eardrops together with penicillin.

Improves Digestive Health

The mucus cleansing benefits of mullein don’t stop at banishing mucus from the lungs, it can also be used to destroy the mucoid layer from the small intestine. Too much mucus in the small intestine can intervene with nutrient boost and compromise the body’s efficiency to offer nutrients into the bloodstream. Mullein replaces the ‘bad’ mucus with a healing mucilage that coats and relieves the gut wall and provides lubrication that enables an easier and smoother bowel movement.

Antiviral Properties

Some particular lab studies have shown Mullein species to have potent antiviral activity against influenza A and herpes. And another laboratory research established combining the medication amantadine with mullein enhanced antiviral activity against influenza.

Final Thoughts

Mullein has been around for thousands of years. Its leaves and flowers have been used for diverse situations, including cough and other respiratory conditions. It is available as teas, capsules, tinctures, and elixirs. It’s commonly considered safe with very few reports of side effects. Mullein oil has been used for earaches and some skin conditions. But when considering herbal products such as mullein, bear in mind that quality, potency standards, and purity for dietary supplements can alter greatly. If you’re interested in mullein, ask your pharmacist or doctor for guidance on trusted brands, effectiveness, and safety.