Introduction:
Mullein is a plant that is grown in mountain ranges. The products of these plants are used for various purposes. The oil from this plant is extracted from the flower or leaves of the plant. Mullein oil is used as a remedy for various ear-related issues like earaches, eczema, and skin-related issues. Studies have shown that this oil, when used as drops, helped to reduce the pain. Also, they are less expensive than antibiotics and have fewer side effects than them.
What Are the Uses of Mullein?
The mullein leaves and flowers are used for various purposes by both humans and animals, including:
-
Cough.
-
Congestion.
-
Asthma.
-
Sleep.
-
Pain.
-
Inflammation.
-
Gout.
Mullein leaf and flower had been in wide use for treating tuberculosis in Europe, the United States, and the United Kingdom by the end of the late 1800s. Many of the benefits of the mullein leaf and oil are based on anecdotal experiences, so more human clinical studies are required to understand the benefits of the herb.
What Are the Benefits of Mullein?
Mullein belongs to the verbascum species of plants. Studies show that they have polyphenols in them. They have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The active components in the mullein are the following:
-
Saponins - They have pain relieving, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor properties.
-
Flavonoids - They have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
-
Phenylethanoid Glycosides - They have antioxidant, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties.
-
Iridoids - They have anti-inflammatory properties.
-
Antiviral Properties - Studies have shown that mullein has anti-viral properties against influenza A and herpes. The laboratory study has shown that the combination of medication amantadine with mullein increases the antiviral effects against influenza.
-
Antibacterial Properties - Researches has shown that this leaf has been effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative, including E.coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, staphylococcus aureus.
Mullein leaves are available in the following forms, including the following:
-
Extract.
-
Tea.
-
Oil.
-
Capsule.
-
Powder.
-
Elixir.
This is also used to make cream by using the natural forms of the leaf and the flower.
Some alternative forms of medicine use mullein for inflammatory and respiratory conditions, but they do not have enough scientific studies to support the effectiveness of mullein.
What Are the Side Effects?
Studies and reports show, there are no major side effects of using mullein in the leaf or any other products of mullein leaf yet. But some species of mullein may cause contact dermatitis, which is a skin reaction resulting in itching, rashes, and irritation. So take a patch test to ensure that there are no such things before using the mullein. Also, there are not many studies supporting the use of mullein in pregnancy, breastfeeding, or in infants and young children. Before taking mullein for treating bacterial or viral infections, consult with the doctor, as they pose serious complications if not treated at the proper time. Also, if someone has some other serious health conditions, consult a doctor about the safety before taking them.
What Is the Dosage of Mullein?
There are not enough studies to determine the dosage of mullein. This is because there have not been enough human trials done so far to understand the recommended dose for humans. The dosage of the mullein will also be dependent on the patient's age, weight, gender, and the condition for which the mullein is being given. If it is prescribed by a physician, it should be taken according to the prescribed dosage.
What Happens if One Takes Too Much Mullein?
Mullein is a non-toxic drug, and the chances of a drug overdose are very less. The dosage from mullein is not determined as there is a lack of enough scientific evidence. There are no incidences of mullein toxicity, or overdose reported yet. But one should take Mullein as directed by the physician or as directed on the package.
What Precautions Should Be Taken?
As the drug is considered a safe supplement, there are not many precautions that need to be taken. But intake by pregnant or breastfeeding women should be done after consulting with the doctor. Also, the consumption of mullein by infants and small children should be avoided without consulting the doctor. If one is already taking other medications, take mullein supplements only after discussing them with the doctor.
How to Store Mullein?
Mullein should be stored in a dry, cool place, out of direct sunlight, so it is better not to change them from their original container to avoid spoiling. If mullein is taken in the form of leaves or tea, it should also be kept away from direct sunlight and dried. The mullein cream or oil should also be stored in a dry location and there is no need for refrigeration. Avoid exposing them to extreme cold or hot temperatures. Also, discard them if they reach the expiration date as mentioned in the package.
What Are Mullein Supplements?
Mullein can be found in stores as creams, capsules, tinctures, oils, lozenges, powders, and ear drops. Also, they are available in tea form. Since they are derived from plants, they are vegan products. As there are various forms of mullein available, one can choose the right product for them according to their preferences. There are only limited studies available for using mullein as a treatment for any medical condition, so it is better not to use them without consulting a doctor to understand the benefits and risks of using them for a particular condition. Also, supplements or alternative medicine should not be preferred over standard treatment. Do not treat any medical condition without consulting a healthcare professional, as it may have serious consequences.
Conclusion
Mullein is a plant that is seen in mountain ranges. The leaves and flowers of this plant are used. The oil of this plant is made from the leaves and flowers of this plant. There are various supplements available for mullein that are consumed for their benefits. But there are not many studies available to support their use as medicine for the treatment of medical conditions, which is not recommended as there is a lack of enough studies. So it is advised to consult a healthcare professional before taking them.
