الملخص

There has been considerable interest in the use of medicinal plants as possible sources of therapeutic drugs against infectious diseases, especially because of growing concerns about antimicrobial resistance. Verbascum thapsus (mullein) is a well-known traditional medicinal plant known for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory activities. This review highlights recent scientific findings related to phytochemistry, anti-inflammatory properties, and immunomodulatory action of extracts obtained from mullein leaves with special focus on their possible application in the treatment of infectious diseases. Various experiments conducted on mullein extracts showed that they can regulate key inflammatory pathways such as NF-kappa B and MAPK signaling, inhibiting various pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-alpha, IL-1beta, and IL-6, and increasing anti-inflammatory cytokines like IL-10. Besides this, numerous studies carried out in vitro and in vivo have confirmed the antimicrobial potential of mullein against both Gram positive and Gram-negative bacteria, and its antioxidant action in decreasing oxidative stress. Based on this information, it can be concluded that this species of Verbascum thapsus is an excellent candidate for the development of a natural remedy to combat infectious diseases. Moreover, it also has the potential for use in veterinary medicine to increase immunity and manage infections in animals. Additional studies are necessary to determine its safety, dosage, and effectiveness in treatment.