Horehound (scientific name: Marrubium vulgare ), also known as wild mint or marrube , is an herb native to Europe, North Africa and Asia, with a long history of use in folk medicine. Here are the main uses of horehound :

White Horehound Information and Facts

🌿 1. Respiratory support

Cough suppressant : Horehound is often used as a cough syrup , especially in traditional medicine. It has the ability to thin mucus, making it easier to cough up, thereby soothing the throat.

Relieves bronchitis symptoms : Thanks to its soothing and expectorant properties, it helps relieve mild inflammation of the respiratory tract.

🦠 2. Antibacterial & anti-inflammatory

Horehound contains a compound called marrubiin , which has antibacterial, antioxidant, and mild anti-inflammatory properties . This aids in the treatment of mild skin and digestive ailments.

🩺 3. Aids digestion

Used to stimulate digestion , relieve flatulence, bloating and nausea.

Sometimes used as a bitter tonic, which helps stimulate bile secretion.

💖 4. Effects on the cardiovascular system

Some early research suggests that marrubiin may help dilate blood vessels slightly , which may help regulate blood pressure. However, further research is needed to confirm this.

⚠️ Notes when using horehound

High doses should not be used as they may cause nausea or digestive upset.

Not recommended for pregnant women (due to potential uterine stimulation).

If you are taking medication, consult your doctor before using horehound products.

🍵 1. Horehound tea

Effects : Reduces cough, sore throat, aids digestion, and clears phlegm.

Ingredient:

1–2 teaspoons dried horehound leaves

250ml boiling water

Honey or licorice (optional, to soften the bitter taste)

Making:

    Boil water, then pour into a cup containing dried horehound leaves.

    Incubate for 10-15 minutes, filter out residue.

    Add honey if you want it sweeter and more enjoyable.

👉 Drink 1-2 times/day, do not use too much in 1 day because the tea is quite bitter and can cause nausea if overdosed.

🍯 2. Make traditional horehound cough syrup

Effect : Soothes cough, clears phlegm, good for the throat.

Ingredient:

1 cup (about 20g) dried horehound leaves

2 cups water

1.5 – 2 cups brown sugar or honey (if using after cooking)

Making:

    Bring the horehound leaves to a boil with water, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes.

    Filter the water and discard the residue.

    Mix the medicine with sugar/honey and simmer until it thickens into a syrup (about 15–20 minutes).

    Let cool, put in a glass jar, store in the refrigerator for about 2-3 weeks.

👉 Take 1 teaspoon when coughing, can be used 2-3 times/day.

🍬 3. Make horehound candy

If you prefer the convenience, you can make lozenges from the syrup above by boiling it down further and letting it cool in small molds (like making ginger candy). It tastes a little bitter, but it works great.

✅ General notes when using horehound

It has a characteristic bitter taste , so if you are sensitive to bitterness, you should dilute it or use it with honey.

Should not be used continuously for long periods of time (use only when symptoms appear).

Avoid use in children under 2 years old , pregnant or lactating women , people with liver problems or taking chronic medications.