Horehound

Species Name: White Horehoun.

Also known as: Marrubii herba, Mastranzo, Houndsbene, Marrubium vulgar.

There are two types of horehound, the “White Horehound” and the “Black Horehound”.

Although they grow in similar conditions and closely resemble each other, it is very important not to mix the two up. They have very different properties and uses.

The white horehound is the one used for medical conditions. The parts that are located above the ground are the parts used to make herbal remedies.

What is Horehound: Horehound is a member of the mint family and is native to the regions that extend from the Mediterranean Sea to Central Asia. It can now be found in North America also.

The leaves of this herb have white hairs that earned it the name “hoary”. The ancient Greek gave it the name “hound” because it was used to treat anyone that was bitten by a rabid dog. When the two names were put together the plant was named horehound.

This herb is considered to be a very invasive plant if it is not kept under control. It has little white flowers that appear in a ring shape between the months of June and September.

The flowers do not appear until the second year of growth but the leaves can be cut and dried out during the first year to be used as a medicine.

Home remedies using Horehound:

Benefits of Horehound:

The white horehound is very beneficial when used for respiratory conditions such as bronchitis. It is believed that certain chemicals found in this herb relax the bronchial tubes and promote the production of mucus which helps to clear the congestion from the lungs.

Because of these properties it is also beneficial as a cold and cough remedy. It is believed that this herb can reduce stomach gas and relieve indigestion.

It is also possible that it can be beneficial to relieve the swelling caused by menstrual cycle.

Uses of Horehound:

• Respiratory conditions
• Gastrointestinal
• Cold and coughs
• Tea
• Cough syrup

Side Effects of horehound:

Horehound has been known to cause some people to break out in an itchy rash. If you are allergic to mint it should be avoided.

Used in large doses it has been known to react as a very strong laxative.

It is advised that if you have any type of heart condition that you do not use horehound until further studies have been done.