Horehound (Marrubium vulgare) is a perennial herb from the mint family traditionally used for coughs and respiratory ailments. Its medicinal properties are linked to its intensely bitter taste, caused by compounds like marrubiin. Proper harvesting and preservation techniques are essential to maximize the concentration of its active components.
Knowing When and Where to Harvest
The optimal time to harvest Horehound is just before or at the very beginning of its flowering stage, typically in late spring or early summer. During this period, the plant’s volatile oils and medicinal compounds are at their peak concentration within the leaves and upper stems. Harvesting the herb while it is in full bloom or after the stems have become woody results in a less potent final product.
Site selection is equally important to ensure a clean, effective herb. Horehound is often found in dry, disturbed soils, but avoid areas near busy roadsides or industrial runoff where the plant may have absorbed pollutants. Positively identify the plant before cutting and only take what is needed. Never harvest more than one-third of the available plants in a single area, leaving the rest to regenerate and ensure a future supply.
Proper Cutting and Collection Methods
Use sharp, sterilized tools, such as pruning shears or a knife, to ensure a clean and successful harvest. A clean cut prevents unnecessary damage to the plant tissue and reduces the risk of introducing pathogens. The primary goal is to collect the tender, leafy aerial parts, as older, lower stems tend to become woody and contain fewer desirable compounds.
When cutting, snip the stem just above a leaf node or pair of leaves, focusing on the upper two-thirds of the plant. This technique encourages new growth, potentially allowing for a second harvest later in the season. You must leave a sufficient amount of foliage, including the woody base and at least one-third of the plant’s overall mass, to sustain its root system and guarantee survival. Collect both the leaves and the smaller, non-woody flower clusters.
Drying and Storing Horehound
After collection, the herb must be dried immediately to halt decomposition and preserve potency. The most effective method is to bundle the stems into small bunches, securing them loosely with twine or a rubber band near the cut ends. Hang these bundles upside down to allow for maximum air circulation and uniform moisture loss.
The ideal drying location is a warm, dark, and well-ventilated space, such as an attic or a protected shed. Avoid direct sunlight because it degrades the plant’s color, flavor, and active compounds. Good air movement is necessary to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and mildew. The herb is fully dry when the stems snap easily and the leaves crumble readily to the touch, which typically takes one to three weeks, depending on the humidity.
Strip the leaves and flowers from the stems and place them into airtight containers, such as dark glass jars or sealed metal tins. Storing the whole herb rather than crushing it helps retain the volatile oils for a longer period. Keep the sealed containers in a cool, dark place away from heat and light sources. This ensures the dried Horehound maintains its medicinal strength for up to a year.