HOREHOUND (Marrubium vulgare)

DESCRIPTION: Horehound is an expectorant and loosens tough phlegm from the chest. It contains Vitamins A, E, C, and F. It also contains B-complex, iron, potassium and sulphur.

POTENTIAL BENEFITS: Horehound is used to treat acute or chronic bronchitis, whooping cough, and sore throat. It's used as an expectorant for treating nonproductive coughs and as a digestive aid. Horehound also may be used for its transient bile secretion stimulant properties. It acts as a tonic to the respiratory organs and to the stomach, although in large doses it acts as a laxative. It has been used to delay the menses (menstruation).

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS: Medicinal use is not recommended. Horehound may cause diarrhea, hypoglycemia, and contact dermatitis. Antiarrhythmics, some antidepressants, antiemetics, and antimigraine drugs may potentiate the serotonergic effects when used with horehound. Enhanced hypoglycemic effects may be seen with antidiabetics and insulin. Those with arrhythmias or diabetes mellitus and patients who are pregnant or breast-feeding should avoid use. Patients with cardiovascular disease should use with caution. Horehound may be associated with cardiac arrhythmias.

PARTS USED: The herb

GENERAL USAGE: Dried herbs - An infusion is prepared by pouring boiling water over 1 to 2 g of the herb and straining after 10 minutes. Dosage is 1 to 2 g by mouth, three times a day. Liquid extract (1:1 preparation in 20% alcohol): Dosage is 2 to 4 ml by mouth three times a day. Oral use - Average daily dose is 4.5 g of the drug, or 30 to 60 ml of the pressed juice.

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