Horehound is a perennial member of the mint family that is distributed
throughout Europe, North Africa and the central and western regions of
Asia. The herb has a long history of use as flavoring in teas, tonics
and other beverages, most notably horehound ale.
Horehound has also been used for centuries to produce teas, syrups
and candies, or lozenges, to ease symptoms of respiratory conditions and
gastrointestinal complaints. In addition to containing a high degree of
mucilage, the herb contains marrubiin, an analgesic compound that is the
subject of considerable study at present. In Europe, the German
Commission E has approved of its use to address dyspepsia, or loss of
appetite.
