Verbascum densiflorum / Mullein: Effective Natural Treatment for Lung Disease
Patients who are suffering from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis may be prescribed pirfenidone or nintedanib by their doctor, but unfortunately, these prescription medications have serious side effects and neither has been proven to reverse lung fibrosis. Scientists have suggested that the use of the herb known as mullein or Verbascum densiflorum is a much better option that can be used to cure pulmonary fibrosis, not just cover up the symptoms of the illness.
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is characterized by the loss of epithelial cells and the activation of fibroblasts and myofibroblasts. Verbascum densiflorum has the ability to significantly reduce inflammation in the lungs by inhibiting fibroblast activation in the alveoli and by exerting a protective effect against lung fibrosis. It works by reducing mucus formation and also by stimulating the lungs to cough up phlegm. It has been used as a traditional herbal remedy for pulmonary fibrosis, but also for inflammation of the trachea and for bronchitis.
Verbascum densiflorum is also used to treat diarrhea. As such, this herb is most appropriate for those who suffer from a combination of digestive issues and respiratory fibrosis or acute lung disease.
Mullein is usually taken as an infusion and it combines well with coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) and thyme (Thymus vulgaris). Remove the small hairs that are sometimes left behind after preparing mullein if you are using the raw herb because these tiny hairs can be irritating to human tissues.
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Resources:
• Kim, K. H. et al. (2018). A standardized herbal extract PM014 ameliorates pulmonary fibrosis by suppressing the TGF-beta1 pathway. Retrieved April 23, 2022 from https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-018-35320-8
• Plants for a Better Future. (2010-2022). Verbascum densiflorum. Retrieved April 23, 2022 from https://pfaf.org/user/plant.aspx?LatinName=Verbascum+thapsus
