Horehound

Christopher Hobbs:

Horehound is a good expectorant and is commonly used for the respiratory system in coughs, colds, asthma, sore throat, and fever. As a bitter, it is used to stimulate the appetite and promote the flow of bile. Horehound is believed to correct irregular heart beat. Horehound candy was popular in the past as a cough lozenge.

To make your own horehound candy at home:

Make a strong tea by adding a handful of fresh or dried horehound tops to 2 quarts of water. Simmer in a covered pot on low heat for about half an hour, or until a strong dark tea is made. Strain off the liquid and discard the spent herb. Simmer the tea under low heat until reduced to about 1 cup of tea concentrate. Add 1 cup of organic brown rice syrup or barley malt syrup and simmer until a candy thermometer shows that it will harden into rock candy. This takes about 20-30 minutes. The temperature will not rise dramatically until all the water is gone–sugar boils at a much higher temperature! After the preparation has cooled somewhat, but is still liquid, pour the syrup into candy molds, or a pyrex glass baking disk to about 1/2″ deep. Either let the candies cool or if using the baking dish, wait until the candy is semi-solid and then score into small squares with a butter knife. Immediately place the tray into the freezer. When completely cool, take it out and break up the small candies. They can then be wrapped up into individual doses with small pieces of wax paper. These candies will be much stronger than commercial ones, but they will not be particularly sweet. If more sweetness is desired, try adding a little honey or raw sugar. Using only honey for the candies doesn’t work because honey candies will be too sticky when they are finished.
The candies are one of the best cough remedies–kids and adults alike love the taste. If they are too bitter, try using less of the tea concentrate in the next batch, but remember that the effective principles are in the bitter fraction.

Horehound has a taste of BITTER and a temperature of COOL.”

Historical Uses

Horehound, also called white horehound, has been used medicinally for centuries. It was a popular remedy in ancient Egypt and by the Greeks and Romans. Historically, horehound was primarily used as a treatment for respiratory issues, digestive complaints, and to stimulate appetite. It was often made into teas, syrups, and lozenges to soothe sore throats, coughs, and congestion.

Modern Clinical Uses

Today, herbalists and naturopaths use horehound for respiratory and digestive health. It is commonly recommended as an expectorant to help loosen phlegm in the lungs, ease coughing, and treat mild bronchial conditions. Horehound is also used to relieve indigestion, bloating, and loss of appetite. Modern formulations include teas, tinctures, and capsules, as well as cough syrups and lozenges.

Chemistry and Pharmacology

Horehound contains active compounds like marrubiin, a bitter lactone responsible for many of its medicinal properties. Marrubiin has shown effects as an expectorant and is believed to stimulate bile production. Other constituents include flavonoids, tannins, essential oils, and alkaloids, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antispasmodic properties.

Clinical Trials

Research on horehound is limited, though some studies have examined its effectiveness in treating respiratory and digestive conditions. Animal studies suggest horehound’s potential benefits in lowering blood sugar and cholesterol levels, as well as its anti-inflammatory effects, but further human clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings and its safety profile.

Summary

Horehound has a rich history as a medicinal herb, primarily used for respiratory and digestive support. Modern herbalists and naturopaths continue to recommend it for similar issues, but clinical evidence remains limited. It is generally safe within recommended doses but should be used cautiously by certain individuals.