Spotlight on Mullein (Verbascum Thapsus): The Velvet Herb
At A Glance
Mullein, scientifically known as Verbascum thapsus, is a biennial plant native to Europe, northern Africa, and Asia, with a history dating back to ancient civilizations. It has naturalized in North America and other temperate regions worldwide. Commonly referred to as great mullein, woolly mullein, Jupiter’s staff, cowboy toilet paper, or velvet plant, this herb features soft, fuzzy leaves and tall spikes of yellow flowers. Symbolically, mullein has been associated with protection, warding off evil spirits in European folklore, and representing resilience in various cultures. In plant-based wellness traditions, mullein is valued for its soothing and supportive properties, particularly in respiratory comfort, drawing from centuries of use in herbal practices for overall well-being.
What Makes Mullein Special?
Mullein stands out in the realm of plant-based wellness due to its unique combination of traditional heritage and modern applications. Scientifically, compounds like saponins, flavonoids, and mucilage contribute to its gentle, emollient qualities, supporting a sense of ease and comfort in daily routines. In traditional systems, such as those in ancient Greek and Roman practices, mullein was incorporated into wellness regimens for its calming influence. Native American cultures also embraced mullein for its supportive role in seasonal wellness, often using leaves in soothing preparations. In Ayurveda-inspired approaches, similar herbs are used for balancing doshas, though mullein itself aligns more with Western herbal traditions. Today, mullein integrates seamlessly into contemporary wellness lifestyles, appearing in teas, extracts, and blends that promote relaxation and harmony. Its velvety texture and mild nature make it a favored choice for those seeking natural support in their daily self-care rituals, embodying a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern plant-based living.
Uses of Mullein
Mullein finds versatile applications in various plant-based wellness product formats, enhancing formulations with its gentle, supportive essence. In tinctures and liquids, mullein extracts are often infused to create soothing elixirs that can be added to daily beverages for a comforting experience. Powders derived from mullein leaves allow for easy incorporation into smoothies or custom blends, providing a subtle, earthy addition to wellness routines. Capsules and tablets offer a convenient way to include mullein in supplement regimens, ideal for those maintaining consistent plant-based support. For topicals, mullein-infused balms or oils can be applied externally, promoting a sense of skin comfort and relaxation. In beverages, mullein can be steeped into herbal teas, contributing to a calming sip that aligns with mindful moments. Edibles and bakeables might feature mullein in gummies or baked goods, adding a herbal touch to enjoyable treats. Smokeables, such as herbal smoking blends, utilize dried mullein leaves for a mild, traditional inhalation experience. Contact us today to discuss if this ingredient is suitable for your next product.
Fun Facts
- Mullein stalks were dipped in tallow by ancient Greeks and Romans to create torches, earning it the nickname “candlewick plant.”
- In European folklore, mullein was believed to ward off evil spirits and was used in protective charms and rituals.
- Native American tribes utilized mullein for ritualistic purposes, viewing it as a symbol of protection and prosperity.
- The plant’s seeds contain rotenone, historically used by fishermen to stun fish for easy catching.
- Mullein’s flowers can be used to produce yellow, green, or brown dyes, depending on the processing method.
- In the Middle Ages, mullein was associated with Saturn and considered a plant of magical properties for divination.
- The fuzzy leaves have been used as natural insulators, lining shoes or serving as “cowboy toilet paper” in the American West.
Discover how Botanic Biosciences can incorporate mullein into your wholesale wellness products for enhanced B2B offerings. Explore our services at https://botanicbiosciences.com #botanicbiosciences.
Informational Overview and Evaluation of Regulatory Considerations in the US
Last Updated: January 13, 2026.. This information is NOT intended as legal advice. It is for informational purposes only. Please consult a legal professional. This information is based on publicly available sources and is intended purely for informational purposes to help you understand the general regulatory environment in the United States at both federal and state levels. Regulations can change rapidly, and interpretations may vary.
We strongly recommend consulting with qualified legal counsel, such as an attorney specializing in FDA, FTC, or state-specific product laws, as well as relevant agencies like the FDA or DEA, to ensure compliance for your specific products, marketing, and distribution plans. Factors like how the products are marketed (e.g., avoiding health or disease claims) can significantly impact regulatory classification.
Summary
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is generally considered legal for use in dietary supplements and certain food applications across the United States, with recognition as an old dietary ingredient by the FDA. It is not scheduled by the DEA and poses no federal prohibitions for possession or sale in wellness products. However, as a plant that can be invasive, it is regulated as a noxious weed in some states, which may affect cultivation or wild harvesting but not typically the sale of processed products. Safety data is limited, emphasizing the need for caution in specific populations, though it has a long history of traditional use.
Federal Regulations
At the federal level, mullein is permitted as a dietary supplement ingredient under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994, as it was marketed in the U.S. prior to October 15, 1994, classifying it as an old dietary ingredient (ODI). The FDA does not require pre-market approval for ODIs but mandates compliance with current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs) for production. Extracts, oils, or distillates from related species (Verbascum phlomoides or Verbascum thapsiforme, synonyms including aspects of Verbascum thapsus) are allowed as natural flavoring substances in alcoholic beverages under 21 CFR §172.510. The EPA recognizes mullein flowers as edible under 40 CFR §180.1 for pesticide residue considerations. The FDA has not issued specific warnings against mullein, but products must avoid unsubstantiated claims. The DEA does not list mullein as a controlled substance. In the European Union (for comparison), mullein is authorized in traditional herbal medicinal products and cosmetics, but U.S. regulations focus on dietary supplements without therapeutic claims.
State Regulations
State regulations vary, primarily concerning mullein’s status as an invasive or noxious weed rather than restrictions on its use in products. In Colorado, it is classified as a Class C noxious weed, requiring management plans for infestations but not prohibiting sale in supplements. Hawaii lists it as noxious, potentially restricting importation or cultivation. In states like California, Montana, and Texas, it appears on invasive plant lists, which may limit wild harvesting or require permits for growth, but processed mullein in wellness products remains legal. No states ban mullein in dietary supplements outright, though general state laws align with federal DSHEA requirements. Variations exist in seed laws; for example, some states prohibit mullein seeds in agricultural shipments to prevent spread. Businesses should check local noxious weed lists and agricultural departments for cultivation rules, as these do not typically impact B2B wholesale of finished products.
Safety Considerations
Mullein has a history of safe traditional use, but clinical data is limited, and the FDA has not established it as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for all applications. Potential risks include skin irritation from fuzzy leaves or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. There is insufficient data on use during pregnancy or lactation, so avoidance is recommended. No major contraindications are formally established, but caution is advised for those with plant allergies or undergoing surgery. Animal studies suggest low toxicity, but human trials are sparse. The EFSA (European counterpart) notes no safety concerns at typical use levels in feed additives, but U.S. sources emphasize consulting professionals. Overall, mullein is considered low-risk for most adults when used appropriately in wellness contexts.
Disclaimer
Always consult with a medical professional for personalized advice. Our products are designed to complement a balanced, plant-based wellness lifestyle. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
References
- https://www.herbalreality.com/herb/mullein
- https://mountainsmokes.com/history-and-cultural-significance-of-mullein
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Verbascum_thapsus
- https://www.herbalgram.org/resources/herbalgram/issues/142/table-of-contents/hg142-herbprofile-mullein
- https://www.peacehealth.org/medical-topics/id/hn-2133009
- https://www.learningherbs.com/blog/mullein-uses
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16222647
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-572/mullein
- https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-benefits-of-mullein-89575
- https://www.healthline.com/health/mullein-leaf
- https://kiki-green.com/blogs/news/exploring-the-history-and-folklore-surrounding-mullein-leaf
- https://www.toknowtheland.com/blog/materia-magica-for-mullein-verbascum-thapsus
- https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/common-mullein-verbascum-thapsus
- https://www.salemsupplyco.com/the-magic-of-mullein-leaf-mystical-properties-and-uses
- https://www.bbg.org/article/weed_of_the_month_mullein
- https://www.droracle.ai/articles/535589/what-are-the-contraindications-for-using-mullein
- https://www.drugs.com/npp/mullein.html
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7008842
- https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/prairie-dawn-herbs-610094-12102020
- https://www.fda.gov/files/drugs/published/Botanical-Drug-Development–Guidance-for-Industry.pdf
- https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/everything-herbs-513211-04172017
- https://www.ams.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media/StateNoxiousWeedsSeedList.pdf
- https://www.texasinvasives.org/plant_database/detail.php?symbol=VETH
- https://eorganic.org/pages/18442/prohibited-and-restricted-weed-seed-commonly-found-in-vegetable-seed-lots
- https://www.invasive.org/alien/fact/veth1.htm
- https://www.invasiveplantatlas.org/subject.cfm?sub=3080
- https://www.eddmaps.org/species/subject.cfm?sub=3080
- https://fieldguide.mt.gov/speciesDetail.aspx?elcode=PDSCR1Z080
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