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Black Horehound (Ballota nigra)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Lamiaceae
  • Common Names: Black Horehound, Stinking Horehound
  • Parts Used: Aerial parts (leaves, stems, flowers)

Description

Ballota nigra is a perennial herb native to Europe and parts of Asia, known for its strong aroma and bitter taste. It has been traditionally used for its nervine, antispasmodic, and digestive properties, particularly for nausea, vertigo, and nervous tension.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in traditional European medicine as a sedative and anti-nausea remedy.
  • Traditionally employed to calm the nervous system and alleviate motion sickness.
  • Applied as an herbal treatment for digestive upset and mild respiratory conditions.

Constituents

  • Diterpenes (ballotenol, marrubiin)
  • Flavonoids
  • Tannins
  • Volatile oils
  • Alkaloids

Actions

  • Nervine (calms the nervous system)
  • Antispasmodic
  • Anti-nausea
  • Sedative
  • Mild expectorant
  • Bitter tonic

Medicinal Uses

1. Nervous System and Anxiety Relief:
Black horehound is commonly used to reduce mild anxiety, nervous tension, and restlessness.

2. Nausea and Motion Sickness:
Traditionally used to alleviate nausea, dizziness, and vertigo, particularly in cases of motion sickness.

3. Digestive Support:
Acts as a bitter tonic to stimulate digestion, relieve bloating, and ease mild digestive discomfort.

4. Mild Respiratory Support:
Has been used to support expectoration in cases of mild coughs and respiratory congestion.

5. Sleep and Relaxation Aid:
Due to its mild sedative properties, black horehound is sometimes used to support restful sleep.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried aerial parts per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to 2 times daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml of tincture taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice:

  • Crushed fresh leaves can be applied externally for mild pain relief and inflammation.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid use due to potential uterine-stimulating effects.
  • Strong Bitter Taste: May not be well tolerated by those sensitive to bitter herbs.
  • Interaction with Sedatives: May enhance the effects of sedative medications.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional European Medicine: Warming and drying, used to dispel excess dampness and stagnation.

Combinations

  • For Motion Sickness: Combine with ginger and peppermint.
  • For Nervous Tension: Combine with valerian and lemon balm.
  • For Digestive Support: Combine with chamomile and fennel.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Aerial parts should be collected in summer when the plant is in bloom.
  • Drying: Dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
  • Storage: Store dried material in an airtight container away from light and moisture.

Modern Research

Studies support Ballota nigra’s traditional use for nausea, anxiety, and digestive health, with ongoing research into its potential effects on neurological conditions.

Black Horehound remains a valuable herb in traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for nausea relief, nervous system support, and digestive health.