The horehound, or Marrubium vulgare, is a plant that many might not recognize, as it has largely faded from public awareness over the years. This is quite surprising given its long-standing reputation as one of the most valuable medicinal plants throughout history. From ancient civilizations to more recent times, horehound has been cherished, particularly for its remarkable benefits in addressing respiratory health issues. Its notable healing properties even earned it the title of Medicinal Plant of the Year in 2018.
What is horehound?
The common horehound has several names, as it was also called white horehound, common horehound, white horehound or even nettle, wild horehound or mountain hop.[1] It belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae). The plant is native to the Mediterranean region, but during the Middle Ages it was also grown in the gardens of monasteries in central and northern Europe, and this is how it came down to us. Today the plant can also be found in South and Central America and in some parts of Scandinavia. It prefers to grow on dry clay-loam soils and rarely on poor, arid meadows.
What does horehound look like?
Horehound has some similarities to nettle. It is a perennial and herbaceous plant. The spiraling white flowers sit above the oppositely arranged, toothed, hairy leaves. These have a two-pointed upper lip that rises steeply upwards. Horehound flowers white between May and September. There are white, felty hairs at the bottom of the stem and the stem grows straight up. Overall, the horehound can reach a height of between 30 and 80 cm. The roots are quite thick and spindle-shaped.
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Make your own sugar-free elderflower syrupUse of horehound in natural medicine
Already in the Middle Ages, horehound was used as an important medicinal plant against coughs, mucus, asthma, bronchitis, gastrointestinal disorders and against poisoning and ulcers. Contains the bitter substance marrubiin (0.3-1%) and tannins (5-7%)[2]waxes, resins and mucilages. Thanks to these ingredients it is now also used against inflammation, anemia, gallbladder and liver weakness, to promote menstruation and for eczema. Due to the bitter substances, horehound can also have a positive effect on digestion and the immune system.
Educational videos on wild herbs
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How is the plant used?
In naturopathy, the leaves and upper parts of the shoots are used before flowering begins. Typically horehound is processed as a tea, tincture or wine extract, even combined with dill and fennel, according to Hildegard von Bingen, to produce a cough extract. Horehound is also available in the form of squeezed juice of fresh plant as a finished medicine and as an extract in the form of drops for the bronchi. It is also found in tea blends for digestion and respiratory tract, bitters and cough drops. Horehound can also be used externally in the form of compresses, baths and washes. For this purpose you can use a diluted tea or tincture. Horehound can also be grown here, so we can benefit from its powers and bring a forgotten medicinal plant back to our times.
Harvest seasonally with the Wild Herb Calendar
In order not to miss the moment of harvesting local wild herbs, we have developed a seasonal wild herb calendar that you can use year after year. In the upper half you will find the respective month with the six most important wild plants of the month, which can be seen on a small mound of earth. In the lower half there are other slightly smaller plants, which you can also collect this month.
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Marrubium vulgare, commonly known as horehound, may no longer enjoy widespread recognition, yet its historical significance as a medicinal plant is remarkable. For centuries, it was valued across different cultures for its supportive properties, particularly in addressing respiratory concerns and digestive discomfort. Its slightly bitter taste, characteristic of many traditional healing herbs, reflects the powerful compounds that made it a staple in herbal preparations.
Ancient civilizations relied on horehound in teas, syrups, and tonics, especially for soothing coughs and easing throat irritation. Over time, it became a key ingredient in herbal lozenges and natural remedies designed to support lung health. Beyond respiratory uses, horehound was also appreciated for stimulating appetite and aiding digestion, reinforcing its reputation as a versatile medicinal herb.
Despite its decline in popularity in modern times, horehound remains relevant for those interested in traditional herbal knowledge and natural wellness practices. Its resilience in the wild and modest appearance contrast sharply with the depth of its therapeutic history. Rediscovering such plants encourages a broader understanding of how past generations worked in harmony with nature to support health.
Ultimately, horehound’s story reminds us that valuable knowledge can fade from common awareness but still hold importance. By revisiting plants like Marrubium vulgare, we reconnect with centuries of herbal tradition and gain insight into the enduring relationship between people and medicinal plants.
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