Ballota nigra Black horehound (Labiatae)

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Ballota nigra
Black horehound
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The Ballota nigra plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Labiatae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Black horehound.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Ballota nigra
Common Name:  Black horehound
Family:  Labiatae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  0.9   Mature Width:  0.75

Habitat:  Waste ground, hedgerows, woods and shady places[13].

Medicinal Information: Black horehound is not widely used medicinally because of its unpleasant flavour[238]. Nonetheless, it does have a range of medicinal virtues, being especially effective in its action as an antiemetic[254]. In the past it was often used fo treating problems connected with the respiratory system, convulsions, low spirits and the menopause, but present-day authorities differ over whether it was effective in these applications[254]. The whole plant is antiemetic, antispasmodic, expectorant, stimulant and vermifuge[4, 165, 238]. It is taken internally in the treatment of nervous dyspepsia, travelling sickness, morning sickness in pregnancy, arthritis, gout, menstrual disorders and bronchial complaints[238, 254]. The plant is harvested as it comes into flower and is dried for later use[238]. It should not be stored for longer than a year[238]. The fresh herb is sometimes used to make a syrup[238].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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