Marrubio — also known as white horehound (Marrubium vulgare) — is a bitter perennial herb from the mint family used for centuries in traditional herbal medicine. Although modern research is still growing, historical and ethnobotanical evidence shows this plant offers a range of potential health benefits.
🌿 What Is Marrubio?
Marrubio is a gray-green herb native to Eurasia and North Africa, now naturalized across many parts of the world. Its name comes from old languages meaning bitter juice, which reflects its sharp flavor. Traditionally, it’s been brewed as tea, made into syrups, or used in herbal remedies for respiratory and digestive health.
🌟 Top Health Benefits of Marrubio
1. Supports Respiratory Health
One of the most well-known benefits of marrubio is its action on the respiratory system. The herb has expectorant and mucolytic properties, which help thin and loosen mucus, making it easier to cough up and clear the airways. For this reason, it’s often used in teas or syrups to relieve coughs, bronchitis, and mild cold symptoms.
2. Aids Digestion
The bitter compounds in marrubio stimulate digestive juices and bile production, which can help reduce bloating, indigestion, and discomfort after eating. It has been traditionally used as a digestive tonic to improve appetite and support liver and gallbladder function.
3. Natural Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects
Marrubio contains bioactive plant compounds such as flavonoids, diterpenes (like marrubiin), and phenolic acids, which may support the body’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant defenses. These actions can help relieve mild inflammatory conditions and protect cells from oxidative stress.
4. Traditional Uses for Skin and Wounds
In folk herbalism, marrubio preparations (like poultices or infusions) have been used topically for minor cuts, sores, and irritations due to its soothing properties. While not a replacement for professional wound care, this traditional use still appears in many herbalist traditions.
5. Potential Digestive Cleanse and Detox Support
Because of its mild diuretic and carminative effects, marrubio tea has historically been used to help with detoxification and elimination of excess fluids. Its use as a supportive herbal remedy for mild metabolic balance continues in some complementary medicine systems.
🧪 How to Use Marrubio Safely
Tea / Infusion
This is the most common way people use marrubio:
- Heat 1 cup (250 ml) of water until boiling.
- Add 1–2 teaspoons of dried marrubio leaves.
- Let it steep for 10–15 minutes.
- Strain and drink up to 3 times per day.
Tip: Because of the herb’s bitter taste, adding honey or lemon can make it more pleasant.
Syrups and Tinctures
Infusing the herb in a sugar syrup creates a sweet, soothing syrup often used for cough relief. Tinctures (alcohol extracts) are another concentrated option, but should be used with caution and under advice from an herbal practitioner.
⚠️ Precautions & Safety
While marrubio is safe in food amounts for most adults, there are important precautions:
- Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- People with hypotension, heart conditions, or digestive ulcers should consult a professional before use.
- Very large doses may cause digestive discomfort or interact with some medications.
Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any herbal regimen.
📝 Summary
Marrubio — or white horehound — is a traditional herb with a long history of use for respiratory support, digestive health, mild anti-inflammatory effects, and general tonification. While scientific studies are still limited, its traditional uses make it a popular choice in herbal medicine.