Is mullein safe for kids’ cough?
One of Dr. K’s favorite herbs for coughs and mucus in children (or adults for that matter). Mullein tincture or glycerite is a nice mild respiratory herb that seems to soothe inflamed tissue while simultaneously loosening phlegm. It is excellent for the lingering cough that can happen after a cold or flu. The severity of your respiratory symptoms directly affects how long mullein tea takes to work. Mild coughs or throat irritation often respond within 30 minutes to 2 hours of drinking the tea.To make a great mullein tea, place 1-2 teaspoons of dried leaves or a handful of bruised green leaves in a tea ball, infuser or coffee filter and place it in a cup of boiling water. Steep the leaves for 10-15 minutes, then strain and drink.Kidney concerns: Mullein contains a compound called coumarin, which can be problematic in large amounts for people with kidney issues. If you have any pre-existing kidney conditions, talk to your doctor before drinking the tea regularly.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.
Does mullein really clear your lungs?
While mullein has been used safely in herbal medicine for centuries, research is still catching up. A few studies suggest that mullein may: Act as an expectorant, helping your body clear out mucus. Offer anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. The plant’s anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce inflammation and pain. It can be taken as needed for coughs, colds, digestive problems and skin conditions. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should avoid mullein tea. If you’re taking any medication, speak to your doctor before drinking mullein tea.Mullein may also interact with medications, particularly those affecting the respiratory system or those with sedative effects. If you are taking medications for conditions like asthma or bronchitis, consult a healthcare provider before using mullein. Though rare, some individuals have reported gastrointestinal upset.Mullein contains numerous active ingredients, including flavonoids and saponins with proven anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antihypertensive properties. However, much of the evidence supporting these uses is weak.Based on anecdotal evidence and published studies, there are no reports of major side effects from mullein. There’s no information on safety for use during pregnancy, while breastfeeding, or in infants and very young children. Talk with your doctor before considering mullein leaf.
Does mullein break up mucus?
Loosens mucus Mullein is an expectorant, a substance that thins mucus (phlegm) and makes it easier to cough up. Expectorants help break up mucus to get it out of your system. It’s always good to get mucus out of your airways,” says Dr. Khan. Use your stomach muscles to forcefully expel the air. Avoid a hacking cough or merely clearing the throat. A deep cough is less tiring and more effective in clearing mucus out of the lungs. Huff Coughing: Huff coughing, or huffing, is an alternative to deep coughing if you have trouble clearing your mucus.So when it’s hard to breathe because of mucus in your lungs, you have three things you can do to help move the mucus out: postural drainage, chest percussion, and controlled coughing. Use these techniques to help clear your lungs and make breathing easier.Cough 2 or 3 times as you exhale with your mouth slightly open. Make the coughs short and sharp. Push on your belly with your arms as you cough. The first cough brings the mucus through the lung airways.
What is the best way to use mullein to clear lungs?
Pour one cup of water over one to two teaspoons of dried mullein leaves or flowers. Steep it for 10-15 minutes, then strain it through a coffee filter or several layers of cheesecloth before drinking. Straining will remove tiny hairs on the leaves so that they do not irritate your throat. During Illness or Respiratory Discomfort – Mullein Tea is particularly beneficial during times of illness or respiratory discomfort. If you’re experiencing symptoms such as a cough, congestion, or a sore throat, drinking tea throughout the day can help soothe and provide relief.Mullein tea Steep 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried leaves in hot water for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain well to remove tiny leaf hairs that can irritate your throat. Drink up to two cups per day, unless your provider says otherwise.The severity of your respiratory symptoms directly affects how long mullein tea takes to work. Mild coughs or throat irritation often respond within 30 minutes to 2 hours of drinking the tea.It may ease a cough as well as some of the symptoms of lung conditions, such as asthma, bronchitis, and COPD. It may also reduce inflammation and protect against infection. Does mullein clean your lungs? Mullein can loosen phlegm in your lungs, making it easier to cough up.Daily mullein tea can help maintain healthy respiratory function, support your immune system, and promote a healthy inflammatory response throughout the body. However, if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications, consult your healthcare provider before using mullein, especially regularly.
What not to mix with mullein?
Blood Thinners. There’s limited research on mullein’s effects on blood clotting, but some herbalists suggest caution when combining mullein with blood thinners like warfarin or aspirin. The concern is that mullein might affect bleeding time, particularly if you’re taking high doses. While mullein is considered safe for most individuals, some may experience side effects. Those allergic to mullein or related plants like snapdragons may develop skin rashes, itching, or swelling.