White Horehound (Marrubium vulgare)

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Botanical Information

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

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Description

Marrubium vulgare is a hardy perennial herb native to Europe and naturalized in many temperate regions worldwide. It has been used for centuries as a powerful expectorant and digestive tonic. Horehound is especially known for its effectiveness in treating respiratory conditions such as coughs, bronchitis, and congestion.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in ancient Greek and Roman medicine for respiratory and digestive ailments.
• Traditionally employed as a remedy for coughs, asthma, and bronchial congestion.
• Used in herbal bitters for digestive stimulation and appetite enhancement.
• Applied externally to wounds and skin irritations for its antimicrobial properties.

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Constituents

• Marrubiin (bitter lactone)
• Flavonoids
• Tannins
• Volatile oils
• Saponins

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Actions

• Expectorant
• Bitter tonic
• Antitussive (cough suppressant)
• Antimicrobial
• Anti-inflammatory
• Digestive stimulant

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Medicinal Uses

1. Respiratory Health:
Horehound is a well-known expectorant, helping to clear mucus from the lungs and ease bronchial congestion.

2. Digestive Support:
Stimulates appetite and digestive secretions, making it useful for indigestion and sluggish digestion.

3. Cough and Cold Relief:
Traditionally used in lozenges and syrups to soothe dry, hacking coughs.

4. Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relief:
Helps relieve throat irritation and inflammation in the respiratory tract.

5. Skin and Wound Healing:
Applied externally for cuts, wounds, and minor infections.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

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

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Syrup:

• Decoction prepared with honey to soothe coughs and sore throats.

Poultice (Topical Use):

• Crushed fresh leaves applied to wounds and irritated skin.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Not recommended due to its strong bitter and uterine-stimulating effects.
• Low Blood Pressure: May further lower blood pressure in susceptible individuals.
• Gastric Sensitivity: The bitter properties may cause stomach irritation in sensitive individuals.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and drying; supports respiratory and digestive health.
• European Folk Medicine: Used in herbal syrups and bitters for lung and stomach health.
• Ayurveda: Primarily balances Kapha and Pitta, but excessive use may aggravate Vata.

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Combinations

• For Respiratory Support: Combine with mullein and thyme.
• For Digestive Health: Combine with gentian and fennel.
• For Cough Relief: Combine with licorice and wild cherry bark.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Aerial parts are collected in late spring to early summer when in full bloom.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
• Storage: Store dried plant material in airtight containers away from moisture and light.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Marrubium vulgare’s expectorant, digestive-stimulating, and anti-inflammatory properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

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White Horehound remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for respiratory health, digestive support, and immune system strengthening.