🌱 Soil Remediation Research

The Eighth Leaf Project is investigating the potential of Great Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) to help restore soil health through phytoremediation. With its deep roots and unique chemical profile, mullein may absorb or stabilize pollutants including heavy metals and PFAS (“forever chemicals”). From rural farm plots in North Carolina to global scientific literature, this research explores how native plants can help repair contaminated land and protect future harvests.

We believe the same plants that heal our bodies may also heal the soil beneath our feet.

🧪 Phytoremediation Potential & Soil Detox

Urban Phytoremediation: A Nature-Based Solution for Environmental Reclamation and Sustainability

This comprehensive 2025 review explores how phytoremediation—using plants and their microbial partners—offers an eco-friendly, cost-effective solution to pollution in urban environments. It highlights successful global case studies where plants like poplar, willow, sunflower, and cattails have been used to clean up contaminated soils, air, and water. The article outlines the main phytoremediation strategies (such as phytoextraction and phytostabilization), factors influencing effectiveness (like soil pH and climate), and the role of microbes in enhancing results. It emphasizes the importance of integrating these green technologies into urban planning to promote biodiversity, restore brownfields, and build healthier, more resilient cities.

📖 Read the full article here: https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14132057

✅ The Effect of Verbascum thapsus on Lead Contaminated Soil
Rezaei, F., et al. | Environmental Monitoring & Assessment, 2021
A greenhouse study tested mullein’s ability to absorb lead from contaminated soil. Results showed notable accumulation in root and shoot systems, confirming potential for use in remediating lead-polluted agricultural areas.
🔗 Read Study on SpringerLink

✅ Phytoremediation of Heavy Metals Using Medicinal Plants: A Review
Juwarkar, A. A., et al. | International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology, 2020
This review identifies medicinal plants with phytoremediation potential and highlights Verbascum species for their tolerance to harsh soils and uptake of toxic metals such as cadmium, lead, and chromium.
🔗 Read on Springer

✅ ICP-MS Results Discussion Conclusion Exploring Heavy Metal Accumulation in Verbascum thapsus (Common Mullein) Across the St. Louis Region

Common mullein is an herb native to central Asia, Europe, and northern Africa, commonly known for its medicinal benefits. This plant is considered a phytoextractor, which allows it to thrive in harsh soils, outcompeting native flora, particularly in urbanized areas with elevated metal concentrations in the soil. Given the history of heavy metal pollution in topsoil caused by several industrial activities, including refining petroleum and mining for metallic minerals, St. Louis is an area of particular interest. An investigation of heavy metal concentration was done in common mullein from different St. Louis regions using ICP-MS. The heavy metals of interest include Pb, Cd, Zn, and Ni due to their adverse effects on human health and historical association with the St. Louis region. References Acknowledgments
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🔗 PDF available at this link

✅ Bioremediation Potential of Verbascum thapsus for PAHs
Maffei, M.E., et al. | Biotechnology Reports (University of Sannio, Italy), 2021
This study explores the use of Verbascum thapsus to help remediate soils contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), a class of persistent organic pollutants. Mullein's hardy growth in degraded soils and ability to stimulate PAH-degrading microbes in the rhizosphere make it a promising candidate.
🔗 Link to Study

⚠️ Disclaimer
This page is for educational and research purposes only. PFAS are regulated toxic substances, and their remediation requires careful planning, legal oversight, and scientific validation. Always consult with environmental professionals or regulatory authorities before beginning any site treatment.

🌱 Soil Remediation Research