Black Horehound

Identity

Common Name

Black Horehound

Scientific Name

Ballota nigra

Botanical Family

Lamiaceae

Native Region

Europe and the Mediterranean

Cultivation Regions

Europe, Mediterranean

Plant Parts Used

Aerial parts

Synonyms

Black Stinking Horehound, Ballote

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free

A bushy perennial of the mint family with opposite rounded, toothed green leaves and whorls of small tubular reddish-purple flowers along the square stem. Unpleasant-smelling, unlike its cousin white horehound.

Historical Background

Used in European herbalism chiefly for nausea, vomiting, and nervous stomach — distinct from white horehound's cough reputation; long valued for motion-related queasiness.

Earliest recorded uses: Nausea, vomiting, nervous stomach, and motion-related queasiness.

Cultural significance: A traditional 'settling' herb for upset stomach and travel queasiness in European cottage practice.

1. Medieval

   European herbalists use black horehound for nausea and nerves.

2. Modern

   Retained in folk practice for motion-related queasiness.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Strong, unpleasant, herbaceous

Tea Information

Research Summary

Used almost entirely on traditional grounds; modern clinical evidence is lacking.

Evidence levels reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources