Horehound Leaf Liquid Extract
Also known as: Hoarhound, Horehound, Maromba, Marroio, White horehound, Marrubium vulgare
Overview
Horehound (*Marrubium vulgare*) is a perennial herb native to Europe and Asia, belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae). It is traditionally used as a bitter tonic for various health issues, including digestive problems and respiratory conditions. The primary active compounds include marrubiin, a diterpene lactone, and other phenylpropanoid esters. It is available in various forms, including dried leaves, liquid extracts, and capsules. Despite its traditional use, clinical evidence supporting its efficacy is limited, and most research is based on animal studies or in vitro experiments. It is sometimes used as a flavoring agent.
Benefits
Horehound has potential anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects, primarily observed in animal and in vitro studies. Some research suggests benefits for diabetes management and wound healing, but clinical data is limited. Traditional use includes relief from digestive issues and respiratory conditions, but evidence is largely anecdotal. Clinical trials are needed to confirm these benefits in humans and to quantify effect sizes and clinical significance. The time course of potential benefits is currently undetermined due to insufficient data.
How it works
Marrubiin and other compounds in horehound may exert anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting prostaglandin biosynthesis and reducing edema. Antimicrobial activity has been demonstrated against various pathogens. It potentially interacts with the digestive, respiratory, and cardiovascular systems, though clinical evidence is limited. Cyclooxygenase enzymes are targeted by phenylpropanoid esters, contributing to anti-inflammatory effects. Limited data is available on absorption and bioavailability in humans.
Side effects
Horehound is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a flavoring agent, but clinical safety data are limited. Common side effects include nausea, dry mouth, drooling, swelling, and loss of appetite. Potential interactions exist due to high tannin content, which may decrease the absorption of co-administered drugs. It is contraindicated during pregnancy due to reported emmenagogue and abortifacient effects. Caution is advised in other special populations due to limited safety data.
Dosage
Due to the lack of clinical trials, a minimum effective dose has not been established. One small study used 1 g of dried leaves three times a day for 21 days. The maximum safe dose is also not established. No specific timing recommendations are available. Liquid extracts are available, but dosing guidance is lacking. The high tannin content may affect the absorption of other substances. No required cofactors have been identified.
FAQs
What are the practical usage concerns for horehound?
Horehound is traditionally used for digestive and respiratory issues, but users should consult healthcare providers due to limited clinical evidence supporting these uses.
What are the safety considerations for horehound?
Avoid use of horehound during pregnancy and lactation. Monitor for potential interactions with other medications you may be taking.
What results can I expect from taking horehound?
Due to limited clinical evidence, the expected benefits from using horehound are uncertain and may vary from person to person.
What are some common misconceptions about horehound?
Horehound is sometimes believed to be effective for coughs and colds, but there is insufficient evidence to support this use.
Research Sources
- https://www.drugs.com/npp/horehound.html – This small clinical study (N=43) evaluated the effects of horehound leaf extracts on blood glucose and serum lipid levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. The study found modest reductions in plasma glucose and lipids, but the sample size was small, and the study lacked a robust control group.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-886/white-horehound – This source provides general information about horehound, including its uses, potential benefits, and side effects. It highlights the traditional uses for respiratory and digestive issues but notes the limited scientific evidence supporting these claims.
- https://www.herb-pharm.com/products/horehound – This source describes the traditional uses of horehound and provides information on its preparation and potential benefits. It emphasizes the importance of consulting with a healthcare professional before using horehound.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4409/11/12/1897 – This review discusses the chemical composition and pharmacological activities of Marrubium vulgare. It highlights the presence of various bioactive compounds and their potential therapeutic applications, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
- https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPEROFILES/243337_PROTOCOL_20210607.pdf – This is a protocol for a systematic review assessing the effectiveness of herbal medicine for treating acute respiratory tract infections in children and adults. It includes horehound as one of the herbs being investigated, indicating ongoing research interest in its potential respiratory benefits.