Hyssop herb was named from azob (a holy herb) because it was used for cleaning sacred places. It contains a particular ‘Volatile Oil’ that possesses a highly aromatic camphor-like smell which gives hyssop a unique healing property making it stimulative sudorifc and carminative.
The ancient use of this plant was as an insecticide, and pediculicide (lice eradicator). Extracts of Hyssop have also been used as a fragrance in soaps and perfumes, and to flavor liqueurs, sauces, puddings, and candies. It has a number of references in the Bible: ‘Purge me with Hyssop, and I shall be clean.’
Hyssop has been used in recent times to treat – Cold, Sore throats, Hoarseness and as an expectorant. Hyssop is used for digestive and intestinal problems, including liver and gallbladder conditions, intestinal pain, and loss of appetite. It’s also used for respiratory problems in various ways, such as eliminating coughs, helping to prevent the common cold and respiratory infections, soothing sore throats, and as one of the natural remedies for asthma
Although an extract of the leaves has been suggested for the treatment of wounds, there does not appear to be strong evidence for its effectiveness as an antibacterial. Hyssop can also be used externally to treat burns and bruises. Hyssop is nervine, and can be used to calm anxiety.The herbs bitter principle, marrubin, also contributes to its use as a digestive stimulant.
Some Amazing Benefits of Hyssop are:
- Hyssop alleviates the risk of teeth loosening
- Acts as an antidote to insect bites
- It is emenogauge in nature thereby alleviating the problem of scanty menses, excess menstrual bleeding, and menstrual cramps.
- Stimulates the secretion of gastric juice and eases digestion
- It treats Insomnia,
- It cures Haemorrhage
- It fights cold, cough and even asthma,
- Its laxative properties help in treating Colic,
- Helps in fighting parasites and intestinal worms,
Hyssop Preparation Methods
Traditionally used in tea, also found as a capsule or extract. Always brew hyssop tea in a closed vessel and keep the bottle of hyssop tincture tightly closed to prevent the essential oil from evaporating. The essential oil may be diluted and used in external applications, or in a diffuser.
- Hyssop Tea Recipe
To make your own hyssop tea, start by boiling two cups of water. Add two tablespoons of fresh hyssop leaves to the water and let it steep for 30 minutes. You can make a bigger batch of tea and reheat it when needed.
Hyssop tea is a great way to relieve respiratory infections, the common cold and sore throat. It also helps regulate your digestive system and supports the immune system. You can even dab hyssop tea on your wounds, cuts and bruises to speed up the recovery process and minimize the look of dark spots and scars.
DOSAGE
For an infusion 1 tsp. dried herbs should be steeped in 1/2 cup water. Over the course of the day 1/2 to 1 1/2 cups should be taken, a mouthful at a time.
NB: Hyssop essential oil contains pino-camphone. This ketone can cause convulsions and seizures when taken in high doses. It is therefore not advisable to take hyssop oil and other hyssop preparations internally in high doses or over a longer time than two weeks.