Expectorant, tonic, stomachic, diaphoretic, bitter, slightly diuretic, emmenagogue, pectoral, aromatic, hepatic, resolvent, stimulant, cathartic (large doses), anthelmintic (vermifuge), and culinary.

Horehounds is probably the most popular of the herbal remedies to the respiratory system. It is taken most frequently in the lozenge or cough drop form. It is quite effective for all pulmonary complaints as an expectorant, tonic and diaphoretic. As a mild diaphoretic, horehounds will promote profuse perspiration and will relieve the hyperemic conditions of the lungs and other congestions by promoting a gentle outward flow of the blood. It has been highly valued as a soothing expectorant for at least 350 years. Culpeper wrote that "it helpeth to expectorate tough phlegm from the chest". As an emmenagogue agent, in case of abnormal absence or suppression of the menstrual discharge (amenorrhea), it will regulate the flow and in parturition, it will assist the expulsion of after-birth.

A perennial, with a fibrous, spindle-shaped rootstock that sends up numerous bushy, square, downy stems. The leaves are opposite, petioled, usually wrinkled, roundish-ovate, rough on top, wooly underneath. Small, white, two-lipped flowers have a spiny calyx and grow in axillary whorls. Found in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Europe in waste places, fields, pastures.

It is a diaphoretic, diuretic, expectorant, stimulant, and tonic. The prepared herb is an excellent remedy for coughing and bronchial problems, used for fevers, nervous heart conditions, to calm heart action, for expelling worms, a liver tonic, laxative, jaundice, hysteria and externally for earaches. It is known as a soothing syrup and tonic candy, which at one time could be found in most grocer shops and was a favorite with children. Use 1 teaspoon herb in 1/2 cup water. Take 1-1 1/2 cups a day, mouthful at a time.