Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Horehound (Marrubium vulgare) has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly as a remedy for coughs and respiratory ailments. Historical texts from ancient Greece and Rome describe its use as an expectorant, and it has been a common ingredient in herbal cough syrups and lozenges in Europe and North America for centuries. The herb contains compounds such as marrubiin, which is believed to have expectorant properties, potentially helping to loosen mucus and ease coughing.

While horehound is included in some modern herbal cough remedies, scientific validation for its efficacy is limited. A few laboratory studies have investigated marrubiin and related compounds for their biological activity, but clinical trials in humans are scarce and results are inconclusive. The European Medicines Agency recognizes horehound as a traditional herbal medicinal product for the relief of cough and mild digestive complaints, based on its historical use rather than robust scientific evidence.

In summary, horehound's use for cough is primarily justified by tradition, with a modest body of empirical support but lacking high-quality clinical trials. Therefore, it garners a rating of 2, reflecting its long-standing folkloric use but limited scientific backing.

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