Marrubium vulgare
Latin Name: Marrubium vulgare
Common name: White Horehound
Family: Labiatae
Parts used: Aerial (leaves and flowers)
Constituents: Volatile oil, alkaloids, flavonoids.
Medicinal actions: Expectorant, bitter tonic, diuretic, stomachic, vermifuge, diaphoretic, antispasmodic, astringent, cholagogue, vulnerary.
Medicinal use: Colds, bronchitis, asthma, catarrhal dyspepsia, coughs, liver and stomach disorders.
Pharmacology:
- Flavonoids thin mucus secretions, reduce spasms in the stomach and intestines, and decrease swelling (inflammation).
Pharmacy:
- Infusion: 1 tbsp herb per cup of water TID; if as a bitter tonic; 1/4 cup, TID.
- Tincture: 1-2ml (1:5), TID.
- Syrup: 1 tbsp as needed. 1oz herb in 1 pint water boiled for 20 minutes, press, strain, reduce liquid to 1 cup, add 2 cups honey and 1oz infusion of Althea, Symphytum, or Ulmus and 1/2 cup brandy or vodka
Toxicity: Hypertension may occur with extended use.
Contraindications: Avoid use in pregnancy, breastfeeding, heart conditions.
Interactions: None known.