Horehound
Horehound is a classic bitter herb used for cough support, especially when mucus is involved. It’s famously used in horehound candy and syrups because the bitter compounds can help support a more productive cough and soothe the throat when paired with honey. It also has a secondary role as a digestive bitter.
Key Benefits
- Supports cough comfort and mucus clearance (supportive)
- Traditional expectorant for chest congestion (supportive)
- Pairs well with honey in syrups/lozenges for throat comfort
- Bitter digestive support after meals (traditional)
Common Issues It May Help With
- Cough (supportive)
- Chest congestion (supportive)
- Throat irritation (supportive)
- Indigestion (supportive)
How To Use (Simple)
- Tea: steep 1 tsp dried herb 10 minutes (often combined with sweeter herbs). Syrup: make a strong tea, strain, and mix with honey. Use short-term during cough episodes.
Taste / Notes
Very bitter, earthy, slightly minty.
Evidence Level
Strong traditional use for cough support; modern clinical evidence is limited. Most practical use is syrup/tea blends.
Cautions
May cause nausea due to bitterness. Avoid during pregnancy/breastfeeding unless clinician-guided. If you have persistent cough, fever, wheezing, or shortness of breath, seek medical care.
Interactions
No major drug interactions known at typical tea levels If taking multiple cough medicines, avoid over-sedation by stacking products If you have reflux, bitters can help some and irritate others—test tolerance
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