Although research in humans is limited, test-tube studies suggest that Mullein tea may relieve certain respiratory conditions, such as asthma, and may even fight viruses and bacteria.

Mullein tea is a flavorful beverage used for centuries to treat various ailments, including chronic coughs, colds, and asthma.

It has a rich, aromatic taste and is made from the leaves of the common mullein (Verbascum thapsus), a flowering plant native to Europe, Africa, and Asia.

This article examines mullein tea’s uses, benefits, and side effects and explains how to make it.

Mullein leaf tea may have potential health benefits, but more research is still needed. Much of the research on its possible benefits involves test tube (in vitro) studies, which were generally performed in laboratories to study small components of the mullein plant in glass containers. Because the human body is more complex, it may not have these effects in people.

Mullein is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat any health condition.

May benefit respiratory health

Mullein tea may haveTrusted Source properties that reduce inflammation, which may support its use in health conditions that cause inflammation in the respiratory tract. People have historically used mullein to manage respiratory conditions by turning it into an infusion, maceration, or syrup, along with other herbs and culinary ingredients, like honey.

Some people suggest it may relieve asthma, which causes your airway to swell and results in symptoms like:

  • coughing
  • wheezing
  • shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

A 2012 study in worms suggests that mullein has antispasmodic properties, which means it may help relax muscles that produce spasms, such as the muscles in your respiratory tract. However, there isn’t any human research to confirm whether this is an effective way to manage mild asthma.

If you have asthma, it’s essential to follow a treatment plan from a doctor, as asthma can quickly become life threatening and require emergency medical care.

May relieve viral infections

Some test-tube studies suggest that mullein may possessTrusted Source antimicrobial properties. However, no research has been done on whether it can help manage these infections in people.

An older 2007 test tube study found that mullein extract was particularly effective against the influenza virus.

Another older test-tube study from 2012Trusted Source suggests that mullein extract may also target pseudorabies, a virus in the herpes family.

Still, drinking warm liquids can help relieve symptoms of a viral infection and help keep the body hydrated. This may help you feel better when you’re sick.

Possesses antibacterial properties

Mullein tea may offer antibacterial effects as well.

One 2020 test-tube studyTrusted Source found that mullein extract inhibited several strains of bacteria, including Bacillus cereus, which commonly occurs in soil and food.

An older test-tube study from 2015 noted that mullein extract reduced the growth of certain types of bacteria that cause infections, such as E. coli and Streptococcus pyogenes. However, more recent 2025 research did not support this, suggesting that mullein extract had no response to E. coli or Staphylococcus aureus.

However, additional research on both mullein’s possible antibacterial effects and its effectiveness in people is still needed.

May have other potential health effects

Mullein leaves and flowers containTrusted Source multiple beneficial plant compounds, including flavonoids, that may have possible health benefits. These include:

  • antioxidant effects, which reduce the oxidative stress that can lead to cellular damage
  • antiinflammatory effects
  • antifungal effects
  • anticancer effects

Research from 2022 also investigated extracts from mullein on mice with Alzheimer’s disease, and the results suggest the herb may have neuroprotective properties.

However, additional research is still needed to understand these possible benefits better.

Most people can enjoy mullein tea safely with minimal risk of adverse effects.

The mullein plant has tiny hairs that may potentially cause skin irritation for some people, so exercise caution if you’re handling the herb directly.

The plant’s tiny hairs can also irritate your throat, so it’s important to strain this tea thoroughly before drinking it.

Additionally, no research is available on mullein tea’s safety if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have chronic health conditions, so it is best to talk with a doctor before using it. Some herbs and supplements can have negative effects during pregnancy or interact with other supplements or medications.

If you notice any negative side effects after drinking this tea, consider reducing your intake or avoiding it.

You can find prepackaged mullein tea bags, extracts, capsules, tinctures, and dried leaves at many health stores and online.

Some people may also grow mullein in their gardens and dry the leaves on their own.

To make the tea with dried leaves, add a small handful, or about 1 to 2 tablespoons (tbsp), to an 8-ounce (240-ml) cup of boiling water and steep for 15 to 30 minutes. To prevent throat irritation, use a strainer or cheesecloth to remove as many leaves as possible before drinking.

You can also add honey, cinnamon, or a lemon wedge.

Mullein tea is made from the leaves of the mullein plant.

Although research in humans is limited, test-tube studies suggest that it contains compounds that may relieve certain viral or bacterial infections and have antioxidant effects.

This flavorful tea is easy to make at home and is associated with few side effects.