Hyssop Herb Profile
Also known as
Hyssopus officinalis.
Introduction
"Purge me with hyssop," the Bible records, "and I will be clean." Hyssop has been used for millennia as a holy herb, consecrated for cleaning holy places. Its name comes from the Hebrew word adobe or ezob, which literally means "holy herb". Hyssop is an evergreen bushy herb growing 1 to 2 feet (60 to 90 cm) high on a square stem with linear leaves and flowers in whorls of 6 to 15 blooms. Native to southern Europe, it is grown in gardens in cooler climates around the world. Hyssop has a mint-like taste (which is understandable as it is part of the mint family) that makes it a tasty addition to salads, provided it is used in small quantities. It has been considered an aphrodisiac when combined with ginger, thyme, and pepper. Hyssop has been hung in homes to provide protection from the evil eye, and from witches. It has also been planted frequently on graves as protection for the dead from the living.
Constituents
Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, essential oil.
Parts Used
Above-ground parts of the plant dried and cut, and essential oil. Some vendors offer the more traditional hyssop flowers, without stem or leaf.
Typical Preparations
Traditionally used in teas, however it may be equally effective as a capsule or extract.
Summary
Hyssop is used in herbal medicine to move excesses of fluids or phlegm. Since the expectorant qualities of the herb depend on its essential oil, always brew hyssop tea in a closed vessel and keep the bottle of hyssop tincture tightly closed. American folklore prescribes a bath of hyssop to help ease rheumatism. Japanese research published in 2003 in the Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology suggests that hyssop teas can help lower the sharp increase in blood sugars after eating which is common to people who have or who are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Precautions
Not recommended while pregnant. Excessive use has been associated with causing seizures and should be avoided by people prone to seizure.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
