Hyssop Herb (Hyssopus Officinalis)
Hyssop is a woody, upright, evergreen perennial in the mint family that naturally occurs in the Middle East and southern Europe. For thousands of years, the plant has been used in ceremonial cleansing rituals and hung in the home to purge evil. At one time, it was commonplace to plant a hyssop bush on the resting site of the newly departed to protect the remains from grave robbers. Today, the plant is cultivated by beekeepers to ensure sweet, fragrant honey.
Because the plant produces attractive lavender blooms and is heat and drought-resistant, it is a popular garden ornamental and border plant.
For centuries, hyssop has been used for protection and purification. Due to its association with the hyssop vinegar given to Jesus during the Crucifixion and its role in spiritual purgation, hyssop is commonly called holy herb. In ancient Egypt, priests consumed the herb to purify their diet and used it to cleanse the people of leprosy.
Hyssop gets its name from the Greek word azob, which means "holy herb". The plant has a long recorded history of use in cleansing rituals as described in several passages of the Holy Bible, including the significance of the plant being used to mark the doorways of Jewish homes in Egypt so that the plague might "pass over" its occupants.
The dried herb imparts a minty flavor to teas and other beverages, and is used as seasoning in Middle Eastern cuisine. Hyssop is not used as much for culinary purposes as it once was, but the herb is still used to flavor beverages and spirits, including the French liqueur Chartreuse. Thujone, the same agent responsible for the plant’s minty flavor and aromatic profile, also lends antiseptic properties to topical preparations made from this herb.
Dried and powdered hyssop is used to make poultices, tinctures and infusions for use as a mouthwash or eye wash.
approximate cups to one pound 5.5 3 tablespoons
Origin: Eastern Europe
Plant Part Used: Leaf
Storage Tips: Store in a container with a tight-fitting lid in a cool, dark place.
Appearance And Aroma: Light green powder with a mild, minty fragrance.
Cosmetic Uses: Use to prepare poultices and infused oils for salves, ointments and balms, water infusions for shampoos and conditioners. The powdered herb may also be used to make natural eye shadows.
Culinary Uses: Use as seasoning for smoothies, herbal tea blends, blended fruits drinks, soups, vegetables and other foods.
Flavor Profile: Fresh tasting and herbaceous with a slightly mint-like flavor and aroma.
Safety: Before making any changes to your diet you should always consult with your doctor, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or have existing conditions.
This information is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by Canada Health or the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.