What Is Horehound Extract?

Significance

• Horehound extract is made from Marrubium vulgare, an herbaceous plant in the mint family. Water extracts are teas and infusions, and are made by pouring boiling water over the plant leaves. Steep time is up to 10 minutes, depending on desired strength. Alcohol extract is made by soaking fresh leaves in alcohol for two weeks. Horehound extract has been used in folk medicine for many years, generally as a remedy for sore throat, cough and bronchial problems.

Geography

• Horehound extract can be found in health-food stores and produce markets around the United States. The plant is common in most areas of the country, growing in all states except North Dakota, Louisiana, Florida and New Hampshire.

Fun Fact

• Horehound extract can also be used to make homemade herbal candy, which was considered an early American treat. The hard confection is sweetened with brown sugar and corn syrup.