Herbal Remedies & Vitamin Guide

20 May 2008

black horehound

Botanical name
Ballota nigra
Parts used and where grown
This European mint family (Lamiaceae) plant now grows in North America and on other continents as well. The leaf and flower are used medicinally. This plant should not be confused with
white horehound, which acts differently.
Black horehound has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
Science Ratings - Health Concerns
* - Motion sickness
* - Nausea
*** - Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
** - Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
* - For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.
Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)
Black horehound has primarily been used in European traditional herbalism to relieve nausea,
anxiety, or the combination of these conditions.1 It was also used as a mild expectorant and to help normalize menstruation.
Active constituents
Phenylpropanoids—flavonoids and compounds found in the volatile oil of black horehound—are believed to be the plant’s major active constituents.2 3 A recent test tube study found black horehound phenylpropanoids to have both
antioxidant properties and a sedating effect on overactive nerve cells.4 Although no human studies have been conducted with black horehound, the herb is believed to be useful for treating nausea associated motion sickness due to a possible effect on the central nervous system.5
How much is usually taken?
Black horehound is traditionally used as a tea or tincture. Approximately 2 teaspoons of the leaves are added to 1 cup hot water and allowed to steep for 10 to 15 minutes.6 One cup is drunk three times per day. If a tincture is preferred, 1 to 2 ml may be taken three times per day. Black horehound is rarely used alone, and is frequently combined with
meadowsweet, chamomile, or ginger for relief of nausea.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
There are no reports of adverse effects from use of black horehound when taken in the amounts listed above. Black horehound was traditionally used to treat
nausea during pregnancy, though no scientific evaluation of the safety or efficacy of this practice has been conducted. Some sources report that black horehound could induce miscarriage when taken in large amounts.7 Consult with a doctor who is trained in botanical medicine before using horehound during pregnancy.
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with black horehound.

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