horehound

Horehound was first used medicinally in ancient Rome as an ingredient in the multi-ingredient poison antidotes known as theriaca.  Medieval Europeans generalized from this use and came up with the belief that the herb provided protection from witch's spell.

The Roman physician Galen was the first to recommend horehound for coughs and respiratory problems, and its been used as an expectorant ever since.

German abbess/herbalist Hildegard of Bingen considered it one of the best herbs for colds.

England's John Gerard wrote: "Syrup made of the greene fresh leaves and sugar is a most singular remedies against cough and wheezings of the lungs"

Early settlers introduced horehound into North America, where it was a popular cough, cold, and tuberculosis remedy.  Folk herbalists also considered it a laxative, menstruation promoter, and treatment for hepatitis, malaria, intestinal worms, and menstrual problems.

Horehound contains a chemical (marrubiin), which Russian and German studies show has phlegm-loosening (expectorant) properties.  In Europe, the herb has been used for decades in a large number of cough syrups and lozenges.  It has been widely used in the United States as well. 

The FDA horehound ban followed the recommendation of an agency advisory panel, which decreed only one expectorant, guaifenesin, safe and effective.  Ironically, many lung experts consider guaifenesin ineffective.

The FDA order covers only horehound preparations marketed as cough remedies.   The herb is still available in bulk and in some throat products.

Animal studies in Europe show horehound opens (dilates) blood vessels, which suggests possible value in treating high blood pressure.  Other animal studies show that in small amounts, horehound helps normalize irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmias), but in large amounts can cause them.