MEDICINAL PLANTS

Black horehound is a perennial plant that can reach a meter or more in height. Its stems are square and are very stiff and straight, are branched and have enough leaves. The leaves are very hairy, oval, and are distributed in pairs. The flowers are between each pair of leaves and are grouped in clusters. This plant is native to Europe and western Asia. It breeds in banks and hedges and can grow in any area: from a mountain of 1500 meters to any road or edge of a field. Usually grows best in dry, limestone soils and when it is exposed to sunlight. Can be found anywhere on the Peninsula.

FLOWERING

It begins to bloom from May and continues to bloom throughout the summer. The flowers are white, pink or a mixture of both, have the cup, tube widened at the top, within the calyx four fruits are quite small, black. The flowers are harvested, the leaves and sometimes roots. The leaves are dried in dark place and then pile up, being careful not to break them.

APPLICATIONS

Black horehound contains numerous active compounds including tannins are, sapone, phytosterol, lactone, minerals and many other substances. This plant is considered a good thinner, so it is widely used to combat obesity, but it must use caution to avoid harmful side effects. Also used for nervous disorders and problems of hysteria. It is a good antispasmodic used against epileptic seizures, hypochondriasis and depressive processes of menopause. Is also used against whooping cough and rheumatic gout. It is also very soothing on sore bladder and esophagus. But should not abuse this facility and always consult with a physician, especially when going to use in cases of nervous disorders.

ADMINISTRATION

Infusion. Boil for half-hour from 20 to 30 grams of dried leaves in three liters of water. It takes from 2 to 3 cups daily. It is likely to sweeten with sugar or some similar substance preparation, as its flavor is not very nice.
Tinctures of black horehound. Grind in a mortar many flowers, put 500 grams in a bottle and add 600 more grams of alcohol at 90 degrees, stand for one week, strain the remains of the plant and store in a tightly closed jar. We recommend taking two tablespoons a day of preparation against pertussis, neurosis, menopausal disorders and incontinence.

SUMMARY

FAMILY: Labiatae
HABITAT: At the roadside
FLOWERING: May and summer
PART USED: Sumidad florida
CASTILIAN: Marrubio hediondo
CATALAN: Malrubi negre

USES

Neurosis Moderate, Antimanic Mild, Relaxing Leve.