HOREHOUND

(Marrubium vulgare; LABIATAE)

Part used: Herb

Therapeutic action:

Expectorant, tonic, stomachic, diaphoretic, bitter, slightly diuretic, emmenagogue, pectoral, aromatic, hepatic, resolvent, stimulant, cathartic (large doses), anthelmintic (vermifuge), and culinary.

Horehounds is probably the most popular of the herbal remedies to the respiratory system. It is taken most frequently in the lozenge or cough drop form. It is quite effective for all pulmonary complaints as an expectorant, tonic and diaphoretic. As a mild diaphoretic, horehounds will promote profuse perspiration and will relieve the hyperemic conditions of the lungs and other congestions by promoting a gentle outward flow of the blood. It has been highly valued as a soothing expectorant for at least 350 years. Culpeper wrote that "it helpeth to expectorate tough phlegm from the chest". As an emmenagogue agent, in case of abnormal absence or suppression of the menstrual discharge (amenorrhea), it will regulate the flow and in parturition, it will assist the expulsion of after-birth.

Medicinal uses:

Hoarseness, coughs, asthma, cough, pulmonary troubles, amenorrhea, croup, chest colds, congestion, dyspepsia, jaundice, hysteria, expelling of worms, chronic sore throat, tuberculosis, dyspnea or difficult breathing, constipation, suppressed urine, chronic rheumatism, colic, stomach ache, intermittent fever, pneumonia, chronic hepatitis, phthisis, cachexia, and catarrh.

Preparation:

Concentrate, fluid extract, infusion, powder, solid extract, syrup, and tincture.