Description and Composition
Hyssop is a smooth, aromatic, perennial herb, 30 to 60 cms high. It has erect or diffused branches; linear oblong, lance-shaped leaves with a blunt or rounded apex and bluish purple flowers. Hyssop comes from the Hebrew name Esob. Hippocrates, the father of
medicine, prescribed hyssop for
chest complaints.Hyssop contains volatile oil, fat, sugar, choline, tannins, carotene and xanthophyll. The tops contains ursolic acid. A glucoside diosmin which, on hydrolysis yields rhamnose, glucose and die aglucone diosmetin, have also been isolated.
Healing Power and Curative Properties
Hyssop is a stimulant and a tonic. It increases the secretion and discharge of urine and removes any obstruction to body secretion or excretion by opening the natural passages or pores of the body. It also induces movement of the bowels.
Respiratory Disorders
Herbalists recommend hyssop for treating a wide range of respiratory disorders such as influenza, colds, catarrh and
bronchitis. Marrubiin, a bitter principle in the plant, has expectorant qualities and helps to promote the removal of eatarrhal matter and phlegm from the bronchial tubes. Hyssop extracts have exhibited antiviral activities, especially against the herpes simplex virus that causes cold sores. An infusion or a syrup of its leaves can be taken in coughs,
asthma, sore throat and chronic
bronchitis with beneficial results.
Roundworms
Hyssop is useful in killing intestinal worms. An infusion of the herb or juice of the leaves taken twice or thrice daily expells roundworms.
Digestive Disorders
Hyssop is useful in digestive disorders. It strengthens the stomach and promotes its action. It can be given beneficially with honey in dyspepsia and flatulence.
Skin Disorders
A paste of the herb applied externally to the affected parts is an effective remedy for
skin conditions like bruises, wounds and burns. It is also good for blackeye, sprains and strains. The paste steeped in boiling water can be used to foment contused wounds, black eye, sprains and strains.
Other Diseases
The herb is also useful in uterine and urinary disorders. The infusion of the herb is a useful gargle for sore throat and a wash for sore eyes.