Hyssop Essence

Description

HYSSOP (Hysoppus officinalis)

Family: Labiatae (mint)

Source: The Essential oil is obtained from the Leaves and flowers.

Fragrance:: Fresh, spicy

Volatility: Middle note

General description and habitat:

Hardy, green and bushy with narrow leaves like lavender and rosemary; height up to 2 feet. In France it grows wild in poor soil; in Britain it may often be seen in borders and hedges; royal blue, white or pink flowers which are very aromatic.

Principal constituents: Alcohol, geraniol borneol, thuyone phellandrene, pinocamphone.

History

History and folk use:

The name is derived from the Greek hysoppus, itself derived from the Hebrew ezob. In the Bible it is one of the bitter herbs to be taken at Passover. The Romans introduced it to Britain and the early settlers brought it to America.

Hippocrates, Galen and Dioscorides valued this herb. Used in cooking by the Romans and medicinally to protect against the plague, as well as an aphrodisiac.

Hyssop featured in all the great herbals of the Middle Ages.

Properties & Uses

General properties: Expectorant, decongestant, stimulant, carminative, sudorific, tonic, antiviral

Primary Uses:

Asthma,	Bruises,
Colds,	Coughs,
Influenza,	Sore Throat

Secondary Uses:

Appetite Disorders,	Bronchitis,
Catarrh,	Constipation,
Cuts,	Digestive Disorders,
Diuretic,	Earache,
Fibromyalgia,	Gall Stones,
Heart Tonic,	Inflamed Uterus,
Kidney Tonic,	Rheumatism,
Sprains,	Wounds,
Worms.

Contraindications

Use only under professional guidance.

Can have toxic effects and can cause epileptic fits if correct dose not given.

Avoid if hypertensive.

Never use on sensitive people as it could be fatal.

Not to be used during pregnancy.