Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) has long held a respected place in traditional Western herbal medicine for its soothing and expectorant influence on the respiratory system. Recognised by its velvety leaves, delicate yellow flowers, and tall flowering stalk, this gentle botanical has been used for generations to soothe the throat, ease dry unproductive coughs, and support overall respiratory comfort. 

Today, Mullein continues to be values for its gentle nature and strong affinity for respiratory health. Its foundational role in traditional wellness practices offers a meaningful connection between centuries old herbal knowledge and modern holistic approaches to wellbeing. 

Herbal Snapshot

Botanical Name: Verbascum thapsus 

Common Name: Mullein 

Native Region: Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa, now naturalised worldwide

Part Used: Leaf and flower

Herbal Actions: Traditionally regarded as an expectorant, demulcent, and anti-inflammatory herb, Mullein has been used to soothe the respiratory tract, relieve dry unproductive coughs, support the clearance of respiratory tract mucous, and reduce mild throat inflammation. 

What Is Mullein? 

Mullein is a biennial flowering plant recognised for its tall central stalk and large, soft leaves. Within traditional Western herbal medicine, it has been esteemed primarily for its role in supporting respiratory comfort, soothing irritation, assisting gentle expectoration, and maintaining a clear respiratory tract. 

The leaves and flowers contain naturally occurring mucilage, saponins, and flavonoids. These constituents underpin Mullein's traditional use for coating and calming irritated tissues while supporting the body's natural processes for expelling excess mucous. Its gentle profile has made it a trusted choice across generations, particularly during seasonal challenges affecting respiratory health. 

Historically prepared as teas, decoctions, tinctures, and powders, Mullein has remained a consistent presence in traditional respiratory support. Its continued use reflects both its versatility and its reputation as a soothing and dependable botanical. 

Traditional Uses of Mullein 

Mullein has been traditionally used to support multiple aspects of respiratory wellbeing. Its key traditional uses include: 

Respiratory Comfort: Traditionally used to soothe irritated respiratory tract tissues and promote respiratory comfort. 

Mucous Support: Valued for its role in supporting the natural clearance of excess respiratory tract mucous. 

Throat & Chest Soothing: Traditionally used to relieve dry, unproductive cough and soothe irritation of the throat and chest. 

Respiratory Inflammation Support: Used in Western herbal medicine to reduce throat inflammation and relieve irritation of the throat mucous membranes. 

Seasonal Wellness Support: Often included in traditional herbal practices during colder months or periods of increased respiratory demand. 

Through these supportive actions, Mullein is regarded as a gentle and reliable botanical for maintaining respiratory comfort, particularly during periods of environmental or seasonal stress. 

Herbal Insight

In traditional Western herbal practice, Mullein has long been regarded as a foundational respiratory herb, selected for its gentle action and suitability for ongoing or seasonal support. Its demulcent qualities have traditionally been used to coat and calm irritated tissues, while its expectorant properties assist the body's natural ability to clear congestion. 

The balance of these actions has made Mullein especially valued for conditions involving dryness, irritation, and excess mucous, reinforcing its reputation as a nurturing and supportive herb rather than a stimulating one. 

How To Use Mullein 

Mullein is available in capsules, liquid extracts, and dried leaf or flower herbal infusions. It is commonly incorporated to support respiratory comfort and maintain a clear respiratory tract, particularly during seasonal changes or periods or environmental stress. 

Its gentle nature makes Mullein suitable for short to moderate term use when respiratory support is required and it may be used as part of a seasonal wellness routine. 

Always read the label and follow directions for use. 

Nature's Sunshine Mullein 

Nature's Sunshine Mullein is formulated in alignment with the principles of traditional Western herbal medicine, where Mullein has been used as an expectorant to support respiratory health. Traditionally, it has been used to help relieve dry, unproductive coughs, reduce mild throat inflammation, and assist in clearing mucous from the respiratory tract. 

This carefully prepared formula features a unique powdered Mullein leaf, preserving the natural integrity and traditional character of the plant. Mullein has also been traditionally used to soothe inflammation and irritation of the throat mucous membranes, supporting comfort and ease during periods of respiratory strain. 

Nature's Sunshine Mullein reflects a considered and gentle approach to respiratory support, drawing on centuries of herbal tradition to promote respiratory tract health within a holistic wellness routine. 

Always read the label and follow directions for use.