Mullein for Congestion

Sometimes called verbascum, the mullein plant originated in Europe and Asia, but escaped cultivation to grow wild in parts of North America. Herbalists use flowers obtained from mullein to treat a number of conditions, including nasal congestion.

Function

• Herbalists credit mullein with having the ability to reduce inflammation and inhibit the growth of bacteria and viruses in your respiratory tract to alleviate congestion and help your body fight its underlying cause.

Clinical Evidence

• A 2009 study at the Department of Biomorphology at the University G. d'Annunzio in Chieti, Italy, and published in the Journal of Biologic Regulators and Homeostatic Agents found that mullein reduced inflammation of cell cultures in controlled laboratory settings.

Features

• Herbalists often prescribe mullein as a daily tea made from 1 cup of boiling water and 1 to 2 tsp. of dried mullein flowers, explains the University of Michigan Health System. Others recommend .5 to .75 tsp. of dried mullein taken by mouth three timer per day while symptoms persist.

Risks

• Infrequently, large amounts of mullein taken orally cause drowsiness, explains Ohio State University. Some people develop skin rashes or contact dermatitis from handling mullein as well.

Considerations

• Because its effects upon fetal development are unknown, avoid taking mullein if you are pregnant or nursing, suggests the University of Michigan Health System.