KBA & Co Blog

Mullein: The Quiet Lung Herb People Have Used for Centuries

February 17, 2026

If you have ever seen a tall plant with soft, fuzzy leaves growing along a roadside, there is a good chance it was mullein. It is humble and easy to overlook, and it has one of the longest folk histories of any plant for the lungs and throat.

What is actually in the leaf

Mullein leaves and flowers contain mucilage, saponins, flavonoids, and phenylpropanoids like verbascoside. Mucilage is the soft, slippery part. It is what gives mullein its traditional reputation as a demulcent, meaning a plant people have used when the throat or chest feels dry and irritated.

A review of the science behind mullein’s folk uses describes its long history as an aromatic and soothing respiratory herb, and lab research has looked at extracts of Verbascum for relaxant activity on smooth muscle. The compound verbascoside specifically shows up in the literature for its antioxidant behavior. Again, this is the plant’s chemistry and its history of use, not a treatment claim.

How we use mullein

Our Mullein Tincture is in the works. It is built around the leaf, captured in alcohol so those plant compounds stay shelf stable and easy to take a few drops at a time in water or tea. I think of it as a simple, gentle daily ritual for anyone who wants plant based respiratory support during dry or dusty seasons.

In the meantime, you will find mullein working on the outside in our Winter Thyme, where it joins thyme and hyssop as part of a chest salve. The tincture will be the inside companion to that.

References

• Searching for Scientific Explanations for the Uses of Spanish Folk Medicine: A Review on Mullein (Verbascum). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8301161/
• Anthelmintic and relaxant activities of Verbascum Thapsus (Mullein). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3350428/

In the glossary: Mullein · browse herbs by concern.

Go deeper with the guide Cold & Flu Season A Seasonal Herbal Guide →

This article is for educational purposes and reflects traditional herbal use. It is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbs, especially if pregnant, nursing, or taking medication.

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