Native to Europe and the Middle East, Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) is a small perennial herbaceous shrub with a woody base and upright branches producing colorful mint-like flowers, normally in blue, pink, or sometimes white.
Hyssop makes a nice addition to gardens, especially as a flowering border plant and helps to attract bees and butterflies. It is also good as a fresh or dried cut flower.
Since ancient times the Greeks as well as Biblical references have been made to “Hyssop”, although this may or may not be the same species.
In either case, the plant known as Hyssop today has a long history of use for respiratory health and soothing coughs.
Hyssop is also used as a spice in some cuisines, and its leaves and young shoots can be eaten raw, cooked or dried. Its flowers are also edible and are an interesting addition to salads.
Hyssop has a minty-sage flavor and its essential oil is also sometimes used as a food flavoring, in liqueurs, and also in perfumery. Hyssop is considered GRAS in the US as a spice, oil, extract, flavoring, seasoning and oleoresin.
Hyssop is also used as a natural dye, producing green and yellow hues.
Hyssop also has a long history of use in herbal medicine, though it is not as popular in current times. Its use is mainly for respiratory health, expectoration and coughs, as well as a digestive tonic.
Topically Hyssop is also used for wound healing. The essential oil is used in aromatherapy for its stimulating and clearing properties but internally may cause seizure.
Through scientific investigation, Hyssop has been found to exhibit antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and spasmolytic activities.
A study published in Industrial Crops and Products (2020) analyzed hyssop essential oil and found it to be rich in pinocamphone, isopinocamphone, and β-pinene, demonstrating strong antimicrobial effects against foodborne pathogens.
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**This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician.