Great mullein, Common mullein

• TeaFlowerInternalTraditional use

  The classic application of mullein flowers: the mucilage they contain forms a soothing film over irritated mucous membranes, while saponins ease expectoration. The EMA classifies this use as a traditional use for the relief of sore throat associated with dry cough and cold.

  Preparation & dosage

  Pour about 150 ml of boiling water over 1.5-2 g of dried mullein flowers, cover and steep for 10-15 minutes, then strain through a fine cloth or coffee filter to remove the fine irritant flower hairs. Drink freshly prepared and warm 3 times daily. Consult a doctor if symptoms worsen or persist longer than one week.

  Dry amount

  1.5–2 g

  Doses per day

  3×

  Max duration

  1 weeks

  ⚠ Age restriction: ≥ 12 years — Per EMA only for adults and adolescents over 12 years.

  Sources: [1] [2] [4]

• GargleFlowerExternalTraditional use

  In folk practice and within the traditional indication, the mucilage-rich flower infusion is used as a gargle for a scratchy throat and hoarseness to soothe the irritated pharyngeal mucosa.

  Preparation & dosage

  Allow an infusion of mullein flowers prepared as for tea and well strained (1.5-2 g per 150 ml) to cool to lukewarm and gargle with it several times a day. Strain carefully through cloth or filter so that no irritant flower hairs remain.

  Sources: [4] [5] [9]

• TeaFlowerInternalCommission E

  Commission E issued a positive monograph for mullein flowers in 1990 for catarrhs of the respiratory tract. The mucilage acts as a demulcent and the saponins as a mild expectorant, hence the traditional use in mild catarrhal complaints with cough.

  Preparation & dosage

  Prepare as the cough tea: pour 150 ml hot water over 1.5-2 g dried flowers, steep for 10 minutes, strain through a fine cloth and drink warm several times a day.

  Dry amount

  1.5–2 g

  Doses per day

  3×

  Max duration

  1 weeks

  ⚠ Age restriction: ≥ 12 years — Only for adults and adolescents over 12 years.

  Sources: [5] [10]

• InhalationFlowerExternalFolk medicine

  In folk medicine mullein flowers are used as a warm, moist steam inhalation for catarrhal complaints of the upper respiratory tract. This application is not covered by monographs and rests on traditional experiential knowledge.

  Preparation & dosage

  Pour hot water over a handful of dried mullein flowers and carefully inhale the rising steam. A folk application; use caution with irritated airways and avoid steam that is too hot.

  Sources: [6] [8]

• SalveFlowerExternalFolk medicine

  Mullein flower oil macerated in oil is a well-known folk household remedy formerly used for earache and irritated skin. There is no robust clinical evidence; the use is purely traditional and not covered by EMA or Commission E.

  Preparation & dosage

  Fresh mullein flowers are traditionally macerated in olive oil for several weeks in a warm place (flower oil). The strained oil is applied externally to irritated skin in folk use. IMPORTANT: for earache do not instil oil into the ear canal if the eardrum may be perforated or there is discharge; medical assessment is required.

  Sources: [6] [8]

• CompressFlowerExternalFolk medicine

  Mucilage-containing mullein flowers are used in folk practice as a moist compress to soothe minor skin irritation. The demulcent action of the mucilage provides the rationale; clinical studies are lacking.

  Preparation & dosage

  Allow a strong, well-strained flower infusion to cool, soak a clean cloth in it and apply as a moist compress to the affected skin. Folk application without clinical evidence.

  Sources: [6] [8]

Mullein flowers are considered well tolerated; per EMA, medicinal preparations should be used only by adults and adolescents over 12 years. Tea and infusion must be strained carefully through a fine cloth or filter, as the fine flower hairs can irritate the mucosa of the mouth and throat. Isolated cases of contact dermatitis and airborne plant-dust airway irritation have been reported. If complaints last longer than one week or worsen, a doctor should be consulted.

⏱ Max continuous use: 1 weeks