Horehound Tea

Horehound tea is a herbal tea made from the dried leaves of the horehound. The botanical name of this herb is, Marrubium vulgare and it belongs to the mint family. It is a perennial flowering plant native to Europe and naturalized in the United States. Since centuries, this herb has been used as home remedy for minor ailments such as cold and cough.

The benefits of Marrubium vulgare can be enjoyed by using the extract to prepare candies, cough syrups, and tea. The candies are popular old-fashioned candies used to soothe itchy throat caused due to cold and cough. Even the tea provides similar benefits.

This herb is blessed antiseptic, anti-spasmodic, expectorant, diaphoretic, and diuretic properties. Thus, drinking this tea helps to fight a myriad of health problems. It is considered as a very effective home remedy for treating respiratory problems.

Drinking one cup of warm tea helps in relieving the discomfort, caused due to the phlegm, stuck in the throat and respiratory passages. It is also beneficial in alleviating the symptoms of lung disorders such as asthma, wheezing, chronic bronchitis, etc.

It is also used as a herbal tonic which stimulates the appetite and improves the functioning of the digestive system. It has the ability to alleviate the cramps experienced during menstrual cycles. Its antiseptic properties help in treating headaches caused due to sinus infections. It also acts as a mild laxative and helps to cure digestive problems.

Additionally, it helps in achieving normal contraction of heart muscles. Though, there is no scientific evidence, this herb is believed to reduce the increased blood sugar level in the diabetics. Early studies also state that it is beneficial in lowering high cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Ingredients

• Horehound leaves (dried) - 1 teaspoon
• Honey
• Water - 1 cup
• Lemon juice

Procedure

• First pour the water in a pot and bring it to a boil.
• Meanwhile, place the leaves in a heat proof container.
• Once the water boils turn off the heat and pour the boiling water over the leaves.

• Cover half of the container with a lid and let the leaves steep in the hot water.
• After 10 to 15 minutes, remove the cover and strain the liquid into a cup.
• Now, simply add honey to it as per your taste. You can also add lemon juice, if required.

This tea has a bitter taste, so one can add sweetener to the tea to reduce its bitter taste. The use of honey should be preferred over sugar as the latter can nullify its health benefits.

There are certain side effects of this tea. Excessive consumption can lead to irregular heartbeats. So, one should not consume more than one cup in a day. People affected by peptic ulcers should avoid drinking it as the consumption may lead to acidity. Excessive consumption of the tea can cause health ailments such as restlessness, dry mouth, pupil dilation, and hallucinations.

Use of this herb is safe for small children, however, pregnant women and lactating mothers should strictly avoid its use. Before consumption, it is best to check with a herbalist to find out if this herb is safe and beneficial for you.

Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.