• Expectorant – Substance that improves the clearing of excess mucus from the lungs by either altering the viscosity of mucus or improving the cough reflex
• Demulcent –Substance that has a soothing effect on mucous membranes (within the respiratory, digestive and urinary tracts)
• Anti catarrhal – Substance that the formation of catarrh or phlegm
• Anodyne – Substance that reduces pain
• Anti inflammatory- Substance that reduces inflammation
• Antispasmodic – Substance that reduces or relives smooth muscle spasm
• Vulnerary – Substance that promotes the healing of wounds when applied locally

Mullein has been used medicinally since ancient times, and its use and popularity only seem to be increasing as time goes on. The leaves, flowers and roots of the mullein plant are used medicinally for the treatment of various inflammatory diseases, diarrhea, asthma, coughs and other lung-related ailments.

Mullein is the name for any of the over three hundred species of the genus Verbascum, which are large biennial or perennial herbs native to northern temperate regions, especially eastern Eurasia. Common mullein (Verbascum thapsus) grows up to seven feet tall and has a single stem with large, thick, velvety leaves and pale-yellow, slightly irregular flowers. Common mullein is the type of mullein that you will most commonly find in mullein products.

Mullein contains flavonoids, saponins, tannins, terpenoids, glycosides, carbohydrates, proteins, fats and oils. Mullein also contains approximately 3 percent mucilage, which is thought to be responsible for the soothing actions that mullein has on the body’s mucous membranes. Mullein’s saponins are believed to be the explanation for mullein’s expectorant actions.

Calm Bursitis

Bursitis is a painful condition that affects the small, fluid-filled sacs (called bursae) that cushion the bones, tendons and muscles near your joints. Bursitis occurs when the bursae become inflamed. The most common locations for bursitis are in the shoulder, elbow and hip.

To help bursitis naturally with mullein, you can simply prepare some mullein tea and soak a clean cloth in the warm tea. The cloth can then be regularly applied over the affected region, which should help to decrease inflammation and serve as a holistic treatment for joint pain and inflammation . You can also create a mullein poultice using herbs such as plantain and comfrey .

Respiratory Aliments 

Mullein leaf is traditionally used as an expectorant because it helps expel mucus from the chest. Its expectorant and anti-rheumatic properties cause you to cough and expel mucus from the lungs and throat. It also lubricates your lungs and throat membranes while reducing swelling, which can help alleviate irritation. Mullein has been traditionally used to remedy bronchitis, asthma, croup, whooping cough, pneumonia, asthma and tuberculosis.

Skin health

Mullein also has anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties. A mullein poultice soothes skin irritations, such as rashes, boils, and even chilblains. A poultice can also be used for bruises and to relieve arthritic and rheumatic conditions. The herb’s anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties make mullein compresses an ideal treatment for hemorrhoids and cold sores.The antibacterial compounds of mullein can be used to help disinfect wounds or scrapes. You can crush mullein flowers to make a paste, and apply it on your wounds.

Ear aches 

Mullein oil  derived from the plant’s flowers can be used to treat swollen glands and earaches.

Equine Use:

How are Herbs (Mullein) Beneficial for the Respiratory System?

Herbs that support lung health typically do so by offering one or more of the following benefits:
•    They may be an expectorant — which helps break up and expel chest congestion.
•    Soothe irritated nasal passages and airways.
•    Relax the muscles near the upper respiratory system to quell a cough.
•    Calm the release of histamines.
•    Fight the harmful organisms that can produce upper respiratory problems.
•    They may be a source of antioxidants and reduce oxidative damage and redness.

Both the flowers and the leaves of the mullein plant are used to make an herbal extract that helps strengthen the lungs. Mullein is used by herbal practitioners to clear excess mucus from the lungs, cleanse the bronchial tubes, and reduce inflammation that is present in the respiratory tract.

Nutrition benefits 

There are still more benefits linked to this amazing plant. Mullein is rich in many vitamins, such as vitamins D, B2, B5 and B12. So it can help in maintaining your bone health and also facilitates better absorption of calcium.

Digestive 

Mullein relieves digestive disorders, such as diarrhea and stomach pains. Its anti-spasmodic properties relieve stomach cramps.

Rosemarie