Respiratory: Cough, whooping cough (Web MD), sinus, asthma, Tb, bronchitis, as an expectorant, sore throat, colds, decongestant

Cardiovascular: Vasodilator may lower blood pressure

Gastrointestinal: Diarrhea, constipation, gallbladder complaints, intestinal parasites, bloating, gas/flatulence (German Commission e); acid indigestion, appetite stimulant

Genitourinary: Decreases menstrual symptoms (dysmenorrhea or painful periods)

Musculoskeletal: Arthritis, anti-inflammatory

Skin: Reduces skin damage, wound healing,

Cholesterol: May help lower cholesterol

Glucose: May decrease sugar levels

Immunity: Increases immune response

Cancer: May help to prevent cancer

Infectious Disease: HSV, trichomonas, MRSA

Other: Diuretic, diaphoretic, insecticide, appetite loss (German Commission e), vasodilator

                                                   *   *   *

SIDE EFFECTS: May cause a drop in blood sugar, cardiac problems (may cause arrhythmias - irregular heartbeats, hypotension (very low blood pressure), nausea

CAUTIONS/CONTRAINDICATIONS: If you want to take this supplement and are on blood pressure or diabetic medicine or have heart problems, discuss it with your primary care provider beforehand.

FORMS: Juices, Tea, Extract, Topicals, oils, lozenges (i.e. component of Ricola) - do not take horehound within 30 minutes of taking other medication

DOSAGE: As directed

Reported doses - often NOT supported by evidence (reported by various sources (WebMD, RxList, Epocrates, German Commission E, NIH publications and others). Read dosages and instructions carefully when available on the label.

• 4.5 gm (crude herb)

• Is often in combination with other supplements in cold remedies and ozenges

**Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.