Perennial, pretty flower. Member of the Mint family, but with a scent similar to camphor. Narrow leaves and spikes of dainty pink, blue or white flowers mid- to late-summer. "Hyssopus" comes from the Greek for holy herb - it was used in purifying ceremonies and as a strewing herb. Tibetan priests offered Hyssop to their gods during sacred ceremonies. Hyssop was used in the consecration of Westminster Abbey.

Hyssop has been used as a medicinal tea since Old Testament times, particularly to relieve bronchitis and catarrh. The leaves can also be used sparingly in stews, stuffing and soups, the flowers as a garnish. In the Middle Ages, it was used for preserving meat. Its dried and powdered roots were used by the ancient Greeks for liver ailments. The ancient Persians used distilled Hyssop water as a body lotion. Culpeper recommended Hyssop for ear troubles. Dioscorides claimed that Hyssop tea was good for coughs (2 tsp of dried Hyssop leaves to a cup of boiling water), wheezing and chest congestion. Hippocrates recommended Hyssop for bronchitis. Pliny mentions hyssopites - a wine made from Hyssop. Elizabethans used Hyssop for treating rheumatism, jaundice and headlice. Can also be used as a gargle and to ease coughs and aid digestion. Rub Hyssop leaves on the forehead to aid memory. The plant also regulates blood pressure. Herbalists use Hyssop for pulmonary disease and in AIDS-related illnesses. A Hyssop poultice may help a black eye. For animal ailments, Hyssop was given for cough, worms and eye problems.

In Elizabethan knot gardens, Hyssop was included for its scent and clipping would be strewn on floors. Interestingly, the mould that produces Penicillin grows on the herb's leaves. This may have some connection with why lepers were bathed in Hyssop water. Hyssop water was also used to cleanse their houses. Applying Hyssop leaves to the skin helps reduce inflammation, bruises and stings. Sprinkle Hyssop infusion around the home to get rid of negative influences. Can be used magically as an incense to call on dragon energy!! Rub Hyssop inside beehives to encourage bees.

It grows to about 3 ft (92 cm) high and particularly flourishes in dry and chalky soil. Bees and butterflies find it very attractive, as do lacewings. Grow near cabbages to lure away cabbage whites.

Plant in a sunny non-acid spot in May. Pinch out the growing tips and cut back hard in early spring. If you are going to use the leaves, pick before flowering. Flowers can be added to pot pourri.

Good hedging plant - trim in summer to keep it healthy.

CAUTION - DO NOT TAKE WHEN PREGNANT

*This sheet is provided for information only and is in no way a prescription for use. Please seek the advice of a qualified herbalist before using*

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