Mullein

Verbascum

Verbascum, commonly known as mullein, is a genus of plants with traditional uses primarily in European folk medicine. However, specific traditions for Verbascum species are not extensively documented. Scientific evidence suggests that certain extracts from Verbascum uschakense and Verbascum wiedemannianum exhibit antibacterial and antioxidant properties, though the activity of essential oils remains less clear. The methanolic extract of Verbascum uschakense demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against clinical strains of Acinetobacter baumannii. In contrast, Verbascum wiedemannianum showed notable antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitory activities. Notably, the global population of Verbascum rupicola has declined by 69.12% over 18 years due to habitat loss and wildfire. Sequencing the complete mitochondrial genome of Verbascum thapsus provided insights into its evolutionary features but does not directly relate to medicinal uses. Safety concerns are minimal, with no major issues recorded. Similarly, there is no reported evidence of drug interactions.

At a glance
Best evidence
D
Cautions

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • The methanolic extract of Verbascum uschakense exhibited significant antibacterial activity against clinical strains of Acinetobacter baumannii. D PMID
  • The methanolic extract of Verbascum wiedemannianum showed notable antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitory activities, while the essential oil's activity was less clear. D PMID
  • The study found a 69.12% decline in the global population of Verbascum rupicola over 18 years, primarily due to habitat loss and wildfire. D PMID
  • The study sequenced and analyzed the complete mitochondrial genome of Verbascum thapsus, revealing its structure and evolutionary features. D PMID
  • This study identified distinct phytoconstituents and fatty acid profiles in mullein plant parts, with root oil showing the strongest antifungal activity against Candida species. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Mullein?

Mullein (Verbascum) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What does the scientific evidence say about Mullein?

5 sourced findings are recorded for Mullein; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The methanolic extract of Verbascum uschakense exhibited significant antibacterial activity against clinical strains of Acinetobacter baumannii.

How strong is the evidence for Mullein?

The strongest finding for Mullein carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Mullein safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Mullein in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Mullein interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Mullein in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Mullein?

Mullein is also known as: Коровяк, Molène.

Is Mullein a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T2 The Phytochemical Profile of the Wild Mullein Verbascum uschakense (Murb.) Hub-Mor. With Antibacterial Potential Against Clinical Strains of Acinetobacter baumannii. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Phytochemical Profiling and Antifungal Activity of Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) Tissue Oils. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Assembly and comparative analysis of the initial complete mitochondrial genome of Verbascum thapsus (Scrophulariaceae): a medicinally and ecologically significant species. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 18-Year Monitoring of the Steno-Endemic Verbascum rupicola (Scrophulariaceae): Compounding Pressures and the Extinction Vortex. literature abstract metadata
  5. T2 Phytochemical Characterization and Evaluation of Antioxidant and Tyrosinase Inhibitory Activities of Verbascum wiedemannianum Essential Oil and Methanolic Extract. literature abstract metadata