Horehound

Horehound

Latin name: Marrubium vulgare

Health Benefits of Horehound

Horehound is most widely known for its expectorant properties which make it a good remedy for coughs, colds, and congestion.  These expectorant properties also help to create a more effective cough because it loosens phlegm and helps to sooth tissues that can allow the phlegm to be ejected with ease.  Health benefits include:  

• Is thought to be a good treatment for diabetes as it appears to lower blood sugar.
• It is often used as a pain remedy. It can greatly reduce pain from toothaches, muscle cramps, sprains, and headaches.
• Great for gallbladder health as it helps to stimulate the production of bile.
• It is a wonderful antispasmodic and can be used to treat nausea, vomiting, carsickness, and other stomach ailments.
• It is great to take after a meal to help with digestion. It helps to decrease flatulence and bloating. 

How to Use Horehound

• Can be chewed or used in teas and tinctures. 

Cautions and Side Effects of Horehound

• Do not use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
• Children should not eat the seeds as it can cause poisoning.
• Do not use for long periods of time as it can cause high blood pressure. Use when needed and not on a regular basis. 

Fun Facts About Horehound

• Horehound is served at Passover feasts as one of the five sacred traditional herbs.