“Whoever rivals hyssop’s virtues, knows too much”
ancient proverb
HYSSOP (Hyssopus officinalis) is a member of the Lamiaceae family, a sub-shrub that grows to 60cm, with four subspecies ranging in colour from white, pink, purple and blue. The name is derived from the Greek translation of the Hebrew esob, although there is some doubt whether they are synonymous. It is a native of the Mediterranean region and will grow freely in poor conditions, favouring sunny dry sites. It is easily propagated from cuttings or seeds. It produces a white mould on its leaves that forms penicillin, endowing the plant with healing properties.
Hyssop is renowned as a companion plant, increasing the yield on vines and fruit trees as its deep blue flowers attract bees and pollinating insects. The aroma deters cabbage white butterflies, which are so destructive to brassicas.
Officinalis should not be confused with Hedge Hyssop (Gratiola officinalis), a member of Scrophulariaceae, an extremely poisonous plant.
Hippocrates and Dioscorides valued it highly and regarded it as a virtual cureall. It was used to treat leprosy and to cleanse and purify sacred places. The best known biblical reference is Psalm 5I: ‘Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean’
Since ancient times hyssop has been used as a tea to treat infections of the respiratory system, particularly where there is excessive mucus production. The herb gently stimulates expectoration and aids recovery. It has sedative properties which prove effective in treating asthma in adults and children especially when exacerbated by mucus congestion. The British and American Herbal Pharmacopoeia recommend it as specific against bronchitis and the common cold.
In the kitchen it may be used moderately in soups, stews, casseroles, sauces and seasonings; its properties aid the digestion of fatty meats. It also features as a flavouring for chartreuse.
An essential oil is extracted by steam distillation which is antiseptic, antiviral, bactericidal, hypertensive, expectorant and sedative. The pinocamphone content renders the oil toxic and should only be used under professional instruction. Hyssop oil should be avoided in pregnancy and by epileptics.
A few years ago, an oncologist in the West Indies was surprised to discover that a group of patients suffering from Kaposi’s Sarcoma, a viral cancer which attacks AIDS victims, were displaying remission when the disease should have been progressive.
He discovered that the patients were receiving treatment from a local Obiah woman who was administering a daily dose of hyssop tea mixed with senna pods. His findings are now being researched in the US.
By Alexander McCowan
Next week sage
