10 Possible Side Effects Of Marrubium Vulgare (Horehound)

Marrubium vulgare has some side effects when used improperly, such as gastrointestinal upset, nausea, and vomiting, caused by excessive consumption or individual sensitivity.

These side effects can worsen daily life, for instance, a person experiencing vomiting may struggle with basic self-care, while gastrointestinal issues can lead to weight loss and fatigue, impacting work and social life.

This article explains in details the 10 most common side effects of Marrubium vulgare if used imporperly.

1. Triggers insomnia

Marrubium vulgare causes digestive issues in some individuals due to its ability to slow down gastric emptying and reduce gut motility.

The anthraquinones present in the plant can irritate the mucous membranes of the digestive tract, leading to symptoms such as bloating, gas, and stomach discomfort.

Additionally, Marrubium vulgare's saponins may also contribute to this effect by altering the balance of gut bacteria, further exacerbating digestive problems.

2. Triggers insomnia

Marrubium vulgare produces allergic reactions due to its chemical composition, which includes terpenoids and flavonoids.

These compounds can cause an immune response in some individuals, leading to symptoms such as itching, hives, and swelling. The allergenic potential is higher for people who have a history of allergies or atopic dermatitis.

Additionally, the plant's sap may contain irritating substances that can trigger contact dermatitis, further increasing the risk of adverse reactions.

3. Triggers insomnia

Marrubium vulgare increases heart rate due to its stimulant properties, specifically the presence of alkaloids such as marrubenine and methylmarrubenine.

These compounds can cause an increase in sympathetic nervous system activity, leading to a rise in heart rate and blood pressure.

This side effect is typically seen when large doses of Marrubium vulgare are consumed or when it is used for extended periods.

4. Triggers insomnia

Marrubium vulgare lowers blood pressure by exerting a vasodilatory effect on the blood vessels.

This is due to its ability to block the action of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which helps to regulate blood pressure.

As a result, Marrubium vulgare can cause a decrease in blood pressure, which may be beneficial for individuals with hypertension but potentially problematic for those with hypotension or who are taking medications that also lower blood pressure.

5. Triggers insomnia

Marrubium vulgare triggers respiratory problems due to its expectorant properties, which can stimulate the mucous membranes in the lungs and airways.

This may lead to increased mucus production, congestion, and difficulty breathing, potentially exacerbating existing conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

The saponins present in Marrubium vulgare are believed to be responsible for this effect, as they can cause bronchospasm and airway constriction.

6. Triggers insomnia

Marrubium vulgare increases risk of bleeding due to its ability to thin the blood by inhibiting platelet aggregation and prostaglandin synthesis.

The herb's compounds, such as triterpenoids and flavonoids, may interact with anticoagulant medications, further exacerbating this effect.

This increased bleeding risk can be attributed to the herb's potential to disrupt normal blood clotting mechanisms, making it a concern for individuals taking anticoagulants or having bleeding disorders.

7. Triggers insomnia

Marrubium vulgare causes stomach upset due to its bitter and astringent properties, which can irritate the digestive system.

The plant's glycosides, particularly marrubiin, may contribute to this effect by altering gut motility and secretion, leading to nausea, bloating, or cramps in some individuals who consume it.

Additionally, the plant's tannins may further exacerbate stomach discomfort by reducing gastric secretions and slowing digestion.

8. Triggers insomnia

Marrubium vulgare interferes with thyroid function by containing bioactive compounds like sesquiterpenoids and flavonoids that can inhibit the conversion of thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3).

This may lead to reduced levels of T3, a hormone crucial for regulating metabolism, growth, and development.

The exact mechanism is not fully understood, but it's believed that the plant's compounds bind to thyroid receptors or alter the expression of genes involved in thyroid function.

9. Triggers insomnia

Marrubium vulgare affects liver enzymes.

The herb's bioactive compounds, particularly marrubenol and marrubiin, interact with the liver's detoxification pathways, potentially altering its metabolism.

This may lead to changes in the way the body processes certain medications or substances, which could result in unintended consequences.

10. Triggers insomnia

Marrubium vulgare disrupts menstrual cycles due to its potential to interact with hormone-sensitive systems in the body.

The herb contains compounds that may affect the balance of estrogen and progesterone levels, leading to changes in menstrual frequency, duration, or heaviness of flow.

Additionally, Marrubium vulgare's phytoestrogens can mimic the effects of natural estrogens, potentially altering the normal menstrual cycle pattern.