Hyssopus officinalis

Hyssopus officinalis is a herbaceous plant of the genus Hyssopus. The plant is native to Southern Europe, the Middle East, and the region surrounding the Caspian Sea. Due to its properties as an antiseptic, cough reliever, and expectorant, it is commonly used in traditional herbal medicine.

Description[edit | edit source]

The Hyssopus officinalis plant is a small evergreen, bushy herb growing 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) high, with square stems, linear leaves and flowers in whorls, six- to fifteen-flowered. The plant has a sweet scent and a warm bitter taste and has been used in medicine from remote times.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Hyssopus officinalis is used for digestive and intestinal problems including liver and gallbladder conditions, intestinal pain, intestinal gas, colic, and loss of appetite. It is also used for respiratory problems including coughs, the common cold, respiratory infections, sore throat, and asthma.

Other uses include urinary tract infection (UTI), poor circulation, HIV/AIDS, and menstrual cramps.

Hyssopus officinalis is used as a gargle; in baths to cause sweating; and on the skin for skin irritations, burns, bruises, and frostbite. It is used in cooking as a flavoring, and its oil is used in perfumes.

Cultivation[edit | edit source]

The plant prefers a warm situation and a soil of a loamy character. It succeeds in dry soils, tolerating drought well. The plant can be easily propagated by slips, or by seeds sown in spring.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Although not all side effects are known, Hyssopus officinalis is thought to be possibly safe for most people when taken by mouth appropriately.

References[edit | edit source]

See Also[edit | edit source]

Hyssopus officinalis Resources
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