Evidence supporting the use of: Mullein
For the health condition: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) has been used in traditional herbal medicine for centuries, particularly to address respiratory ailments such as coughs, bronchitis, and congestion. Its use in supporting or treating Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD) is primarily grounded in this traditional context rather than robust modern scientific validation. Folk medicine practices, especially in Europe and North America, have employed mullein leaves and flowers in teas, tinctures, and syrups, based on the plant’s purported expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and soothing effects on mucous membranes.
While mullein contains compounds such as saponins, flavonoids, and mucilage that could theoretically support respiratory health by thinning mucus and reducing irritation, direct scientific evidence for its efficacy specifically in COPD is limited. Most research focuses on mullein’s general effects on respiratory tract inflammation and infection, often in vitro or in animal studies rather than in well-controlled clinical trials involving COPD patients. Thus, while there is some preliminary scientific rationale for its traditional use as a respiratory herb, clinical evidence remains weak.
In summary, mullein’s use for COPD is justified mainly by traditional use and anecdotal reports, not by strong scientific validation. People considering mullein for COPD should consult with healthcare professionals, as it should not replace established medical treatments.
More about Mullein
More about Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder
Other ingredients used for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder
Acetyl L-carnitineAdrenergic amines
Agarikon Mushroom
amino acids
AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)
andrographolide
anthocyanins
apocynin
ashwagandha
astragaloside
astragalus
atractylone
Auricularia
Baccharoides anthelmintica
bacteria
baicalein
baicalin
Baikal Skullcap
Bassia scoparia
beta caryophyllene
black cumin
Boerhavia diffusa
Bombax
Boswellia
buckthorn
capillary artemisia
cat's claw
caterpillar mushroom
Chinese salvia root
Codonopsis
cordyceps
cowherb
curcumin
danshen
dismutase
dodder
eicosapentaenoic acid
fish oil
gamma-glutamylcysteine
ganoderma
garlic bulb
ginger
Glutathione
green tea
Hedyotis
herbal blend (proprietary)
Hygrophila
Indian kinotree
Indian tinospora
licorice root
lingzhi
luteolin
Marine lipid
Mullein
N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC)
nicotinamide riboside
omega-3 fatty acids
Ophiopogon
Oxystelma
paeoniflorin
Phyllanthus
polyphenols
prebiotic blend (proprietary)
Pyrrosia
quercetin
reishi mushroom
resveratrol
rhizome
specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs)
spirulina
Sulforaphane
Theophylline
Thymoquinone
Tinospora cordifolia
Tremella
Triphala
Triterpenes
turmeric
vitamin C
vitamin D
Withanolides
Wulinshen
Other health conditions supported by Mullein
Allergies (respiratory)Asthma
Bronchitis
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder
Congestion (bronchial)
Congestion (lungs)
Cough (dry)
Cough (general)
Cough (spastic)
Ear Infection or Earache
Emphysema
Inflammation
Laryngitis
Pertussis
Pleurisy
Pneumonia
Sinus Infection
Skin (infections)
Sore Throat
Tuberculosis
Wheezing
Wounds and Sores
