Horehound (Marrubium vulgare L., Lamiaceae) is a well-known herbal medicine of the Mint family that is considered one of the most popular herbal remedies for chronic coughs and colds. The Romans valued Horehound for its medicinal properties, and its Latin name, Marrubium, is said to be derived from Maria Urbs, an ancient town in Italy.
But Marrubium vulgare was already known to have healing properties in Egypt and Greece some 2000 years ago. This is revealed by the plant’s English name, white Horehound, derived from Horus, an Egyptian goddess.
From the end of May till July, tiny white flowers can be observed: numerous, compact, and placed at wide intervals along the stem. White Horehound is a hardy plant that is quickly grown and flourishes best in dry, poor soil. It has a height between 30 and 60 cm.