Horehound is in the mint family and looks like mint, but it isn’t mint. Horehound (aka Marrubium) has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various respiratory conditions. It is a popular ingredient in commercial cough syrups and lozenges, such as the popular Swiss cough remedy, Ricola Drops.
It is a soothing herb with known antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties that make it effective for treating colds, coughs, asthma, seizures, high blood pressure, menstrual cramping, and tremors. It is also used to help balance blood sugar levels and improve digestion.
In China, white horehound is a remedy for stubborn coughs and sinus congestion. It is considered effective to Resolve Phlegm, Clear Heat, and Tonify Qi.
There are two types of horehound, white and black. They are related but different plants. White horehound (Marrubium vulgare) is just called horehound and the black variety (Ballota nigra) is called black horehound. While having some overlapping properties, they are different plants.
