Where do hyssop plants grow?
The hyssop plant is found in many parts of the world. It grows well in warm climates and can be found in gardens, fields, and even on the side of the road. The hyssop plant is hardy and can survive in many different environments. Hyssop does not tolerate wet soils or frost well, so it is best to plant it in late spring or early summer.
What is hyssop?
Hyssop is a perennial plant which is native to the Mediterranean region and has been imported and naturalized in the US and Canada. It grows along roadsides and is sometimes found as a garden herb. Hyssop is quite similar in appearance to other members of the mint family.
Are hyssop plants mentioned in the Bible?
In addition, there are a number of references in the Bible to plants called "hyssop," although there is considerable controversy regarding the actual identity of these plants. There is little evidence that the plant mentioned in Bible was actually "H. officinalis.".
Are hyssop plants good for pollinators?
Mexican hyssop is an excellent variety for attracting pollinators. It’s sometimes referred to as Mexican giant hyssop because it grows over three feet tall. This variety is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States and likes dry sandy soil.
What is hyssop called today?
Reviewed on 6/11/2021. Other Name(s): Herbe de Joseph, Herbe Sacrée, Herbe Sainte, Hiope, Hisopo, Hissopo, Hyssopus officinalis, Hysope, Hysope Officinale, Jufa, Rabo De Gato, Ysop.
Where did hyssop originate?
Hyssop History – Name and Species Origins Hyssop is a native of southern Europe and the Mediterranean. It is not clear when hyssop was brought to England. It may have been as early as the 13th Century as it has become naturalized on the wall of Beaulieu Abbey, which was founded in 1203 or 1204.
Where did hyssop grow in the Bible?
Yet, modern Bible scholars still express uncertainty about the actual identity of hyssop and some suggest that it could be caper (Capparis spinosa) a very common shrub in the Middle East. The only evidence for this is the verse in 1 Kings 4:33 referring to hyssop (ezov) growing from a wall.
Why did they use hyssop in the Bible?
In the Old Testament hyssop was used to sprinkle blood as part of the Jewish Passover. Hyssop was mentioned in the Bible for its cleansing effect in connection with plague, leprosy and chest ailments and symbolically in cleansing the soul.
What is hyssop good for?
The nutrients and essential oils in hyssop can offer some helpful health effects. For example, hyssop is rich in flavonoids, flavorful compounds that can act as antioxidants. Eating foods rich in flavonoids may help reduce your risk of age-related conditions like cataracts, heart disease, and strokes.
What are the health benefits of hyssop?
Traditional uses of hyssop include treatment for:Digestive aid.Liver problems.Gallbladder disease.Gas.Intestinal pain.Colic.Coughs.Colds.More items...•
What did God say about hyssop?
In Psalm 51:7 he wrote "Purify me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow." The sixth reference is during Jesus' crucifixion when Hyssop was dipped in vinegar and wiped across Jesus' lips to ease the suffering.
What does hyssop mean in Hebrew?
0:201:50Psalm 51:7 & The Hyssop Plant | Biblical Context Explained - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBecause the hyssop plant occurs. In those context of forgiving sins and cleansing. It's striking toMoreBecause the hyssop plant occurs. In those context of forgiving sins and cleansing. It's striking to me that I read it as Jesus is suffering and dying on the cross.
What is the Hebrew word for hyssop?
The Septuagint translates the name as ὕσσωπος hyssop, and English translations of the Bible often follow this rendering. The Hebrew word אזוב and the Greek word ὕσσωπος probably share a common (unknown) origin. In the Bible, ezov is described as a small plant found on or near walls, with an aromatic odour.
What does hyssop smell like?
mintyHyssop leaves have a scent that could be called 'skunky'. But as a member of the mint family – the same family to which basil, mint, lavender, oregano, rosemary, sage and thyme belong – hyssop has a complex scent with minty overtones.
Are hyssop and lavender the same?
Like lavender, Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) is a perennial that belongs to the mint and sage family (Lamiaceae) – mostly aromatic perennial herbs. Hyssop has many similarities to lavender. The leaf shape, in particular, is quite similar but the leaf color is greener than lavenders'.
Does hyssop grow in the United States?
Hyssopus officinalis is native to the Mediterranean, including parts of southern Europe and western Asia. But it has naturalized in North America, so you can find it growing on roadsides in southern Canada and parts of the northern US.
What does hyssop mean in Hebrew?
0:201:50Psalm 51:7 & The Hyssop Plant | Biblical Context Explained - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBecause the hyssop plant occurs. In those context of forgiving sins and cleansing. It's striking toMoreBecause the hyssop plant occurs. In those context of forgiving sins and cleansing. It's striking to me that I read it as Jesus is suffering and dying on the cross.
Are hyssop and lavender the same?
Like lavender, Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) is a perennial that belongs to the mint and sage family (Lamiaceae) – mostly aromatic perennial herbs. Hyssop has many similarities to lavender. The leaf shape, in particular, is quite similar but the leaf color is greener than lavenders'.
What does hyssop mean in Psalm 51?
Hyssop, blood, cleansing, and forgiveness all go together in the Bible, and David's plea to be cleansed with hyssop was like saying, “Wash me with blood, and I will be forgiven.” The blood of Jesus is our hope of forgiveness. When we confess our sins and are washed in the blood of Jesus, we are made clean.
What does hyssop smell like?
mintyHyssop leaves have a scent that could be called 'skunky'. But as a member of the mint family – the same family to which basil, mint, lavender, oregano, rosemary, sage and thyme belong – hyssop has a complex scent with minty overtones.
What Is Hyssop Used For?
It's in the early stages still, but much of it is promising, which could give researchers an incentive to keep studying it.
Does hyssop help with aging?
A 2014 study published in Preventive Nutrition and Food Science named hyssop among several plants researchers believe to have two properties that give them anti-aging effects on the skin: they're antioxidants, and they suppress the storage of fat in the body. 5
Is hyssop good for ulcers?
3 . Because of this, they concluded that hyssop may be an effective ulcer treatment.
Does hyssop cause sweating?
To cause sweating (in baths) Topically for burns, bruises, and frostbite. You may have come across hyssop without knowing it . While it has a bitter taste, it's sometimes used as a flavoring in foods, and the oil is used as a fragrance in some body-care products and makeup.
Can you use hyssop medicinally?
Possible side effects include: Allergic reactions: Do not use hyssop medicinally if you've ever had an allergic reaction to hyssop containing products, the hyssop plant itself, or other plants in the Lamiaceae family (also known as the mint or deadnettle family). Vomiting: This typically occurs only at high doses.
Does hyssop kill cancer cells?
A 2014 review by researchers Zielinska and Matkowski found evidence that herbs in the Lamiaceae family, which includes hyssop, may be able to destroy cancer cells. 1
Is hyssop safe to take?
Even natural treatments can come with unwanted side effects, and hyssop is no exception. The herb is believed to be relatively safe at levels commonly used in foods; however, at high doses, it can be dangerous. Some people should avoid hyssop entirely.
What is Hyssop?
Hyssop is a perennial plant which is native to the Mediterranean region and has been imported and naturalized in the US and Canada. It grows along roadsides and is sometimes found as a garden herb. Hyssop is quite similar in appearance to other members of the mint family. Its volatile oil possesses a highly aromatic camphor-like smell.
What is the common name for hyssop?
These include giant hyssop (Agastache sp.), hedge hyssop (Gratiola officinalis), and water hysso p (Bacopa sp.). None of these plants are members of the genus Hyssopus.
Is hyssop oil good for sore throats?
Still used today by herbalists for its beneficial effects, hyssop's volatile oil represents the most important fraction of this plant. It may have some small beneficial effect in the treatment of sore throats and as an expectorant. However, clinical studies are lacking for any medicinal use of hyssop.
Is hyssop a plant?
Hyssop has been noted for centuries in herbal medicine. In addition, there are a number of references in the Bible to plants called "hyssop," although there is considerable controversy regarding the actual identity of these plants. There is little evidence that the plant mentioned in Bible was actually "H. officinalis."
Is hyssop good for asthma?
Some herbalists also believe that hyssop has beneficial effects for asthma, urinary tract inflammation, and appetite stimulation. Its effectiveness in relieving gas and colic also are listed under its medicinal uses. None of these uses have been studied clinically.
Does Hyssop cause abortive effects?
Avoid use. Documented adverse effects. Hyssop has emmenagogue (to stimulate menstrual flow) and abortive effects.
Where is hyssop native to?
Hyssopus officinalis or hyssop is a shrub in the Lamiaceae or mint family native to Southern Europe, the Middle East, and the region surrounding the Caspian Sea. Due to its purported properties as an antiseptic, cough reliever, and expectorant, it has been used in traditional herbal medicine .
How tall is a hyssop?
Hyssop is a brightly coloured shrub or subshrub that ranges from 30 to 60 cm (12 to 24 in) in height. The stem is woody at the base, from which grow a number of upright branches. Its leaves are lanceolate, dark green, and from 2 to 2.5 cm ( 3⁄4 to 1 in) long.
What color is hyssop in summer?
During the summer, hyssop produces pink, blue , or, more rarely, white fragrant flowers. These give rise to small oblong tetra- achenes .
What is a hyssopus?
Hyssopus pubescens Jord. & Fourr. Hyssopus recticaulis Jord. & Fourr. Hyssopus ruber Mill. Hyssopus officinalis or hyssop is a shrub in the Lamiaceae or mint family native to Southern Europe, the Middle East, and the region surrounding the Caspian Sea.
Is Hyssop a drought tolerant plant?
Hyssop is resistant to drought, and tolerant of chalky, sandy soils. It thrives in full sun and warm climates.
What is a rock hyssop?
Rock hyssop is a cultivar of common hyssop. The big difference is that its much lower-growing. It’s popular as a landscape specimen and looks beautiful in rock gardens and along the edges of pathways. It pairs nicely with creeping thyme. Rock hyssop does well in USDA zones 3 through 9.
What is hyssop used for?
It’s used as a culinary and medicinal herb, as well as a companion plant that helps deter pests.
What is the most underrated herb in the garden?
Hyssop may be the most underrated herb in the garden. Growing hyssop gives your medicine shelf and meal routine a boost. As if that weren’t enough, the hardy herb enhances your flower beds with its delicate pink, blue, white, and yellow flowers that are irresistible to pollinators. The flowers arrive in late summer and fall, ...
Why was Hyssop hung on the door?
Hyssop was often scattered on the floor of sick rooms. In Puritan England, it was hung on doors to keep away witches.
How long does it take for hyssop to bloom?
This is the main generic variety known as common hyssop. It’s a perennial and reseeds readily. This type takes 85 days for the plants to flower with bright blue-violet flowers. Some varieties may also have pink or white blossoms.
Is hyssop a pest?
Hyssop is resistant to pests and diseases. In fact, many people grow it as a companion plant to help repel cabbage months and flea beetles. The few diseases that attack hyssop are all related to the plant growing in conditions that are too moist.
Does hyssop repel insects?
Hyssop has a wonderful reputation as a companion plant. Not only does it attract beneficial insects, but it also repels some pests.
What is hyssop edible?
There are a wide variety of plants known by the name “hyssop,” from hedge hyssop to capers to anise hyssop. However, true hyssop, Hyssopus officinalis, is an edible member of the mint family that’s been used in a wide variety of foods, drinks, folk remedies, and even perfumes. Compared to other plants known as hyssops, true ...
What is hyssop tea good for?
Tea made from true hyssop has been used to help treat coughs, earaches, asthma, and bloating. Today, studies are beginning to back up some of these age-old folk remedies, showing that hyssop offers some impressive health benefits.
Is hyssop good for you?
Health Benefits. The nutrients and essential oils in hyssop can offer some helpful health effects. For example, hyssop is rich in flavonoids, flavorful compounds that can act as antioxidants. Eating foods rich in flavonoids may help reduce your risk of age-related conditions like cataracts, heart disease, and strokes.
Can you take hyssop while pregnant?
People who are pregnant or may become pregnant should avoid hyssop entirely. Hyssop may cause the uterus to contract, leading to miscarriages or other pregnancy complications. Amounts and Dosage. No studies have been done on hyssop to find the safe maximum serving amount.
Can hyssop cause seizures?
May Trigger Seizures. True hyssop is known to cause seizures, and it can elevate the risk of seizures even in adults without pre-existing conditions. People taking anti-seizure medication or who have diagnosed seizure disorders should avoid products with hyssop.
Is hyssop safe to eat?
Compared to other plants known as hyssops, true hyssop is safe to eat and is found in a variety of spice mixes and foods. Hyssop plants look like a smaller form of lavender, with spikes of blue flowers that smell slightly minty. Tea made from true hyssop has been used to help treat coughs, earaches, asthma, and bloating.
Does hyssop help with asthma?
May Help with Asthma. Several studies have suggested that hyssop’s traditional use for treating symptoms of asthma and head colds may actually have an effect. These studies have compared hyssop to other herbal and non-herbal methods of treating asthma symptoms and found that hyssop was one of the most effective natural substances.
Where in the Bible is hyssop mentioned?
The Bible mentions hyssop several times, mostly in the Old Testament. In Leviticus, God commanded His people to use hyssop in the ceremonial cleansing of people and houses. In one example, God tells the priests to use hyssop together with cedar wood, scarlet yarn, and the blood of a clean bird to sprinkle a person recently healed ...
Why was Hyssop considered a pure person?
This was probably because hyssop was sturdy and could withstand the brushing, but it also likely signified that God was marking His people as “pure” and not targets of the judgment God was about to deal out to the Egyptians.
Why do we use hyssop in the Bible?
Hyssop is also used symbolically in the Bible. When the Israelites marked their doorposts with lamb’s blood in order for the angel of death to pass over them, God instructed them to use a bunch of hyssop as a “paintbrush” ( Exodus 12:22 ). This was probably because hyssop was sturdy and could withstand the brushing, ...
What does David say about Hyssop?
David also mentions hyssop in Psalm 51:7: “Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.”. David does not refer to physical cleansing—rather, he is asking God to cleanse him spiritually as he confesses his sin.
What is hyssop essential oil?
Hyssop ( Hyssopus officinalis) essential oil is made from the flowers and leaves of the plant bearing the same name. While the plant technically belongs to the mint family, the flowers look similar to lavender. It’s a staple in folk medicine, especially in Middle Eastern and Southern European regions, where the plant originates.
What is the difference between essential oils and hyssop?
Essential oils are potent concentrates extracted from plant leaves, bark, and flowers. While each type of essential oil differs in its chemical make-up and use, pure essential oils may be considered just as potent as conventional medicines. Hyssop oil is just one of many essential oils that’s gaining popularity as a possible alternative ...
What is the best way to diffuse hyssop oil?
When using for hyssop oil for aromatherapy, a diffuser can help keep the scent going all day. This small machine uses water and several drops of essential oils to diffuse an aromatic steam into the air.
How long does it take for hyssop oil to react to skin?
Dilute hyssop oil with a carrier oil, such coconut or olive oil. Then patch test a small area of your skin and wait for 24 hours to see if your skin has a reaction to the oil. If there is no reaction, hyssop may be applied topically a few times per day until you see improvements.
Is hyssop oil safe to use topically?
Learn more about hyssop oil and how to use it safely.
Is hyssop oil anti-inflammatory?
Hyssop oil is said to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, Trusted Source . and uplifting benefits. These may be related to its key ingredients, such as: tannins. flavonoids. bitters. volatile oils, such as pinocamphone. Below are some of the most commonly touted benefits of hyssop essential oil.
Is hyssop good for cancer?
chemical analysis of hyssop revealed its promising antioxidant properties. Researchers noted hyssop could have future medicinal use, as antioxidants can fight the free radicals that cause oxidative stress, which is connected to chronic diseases from type 2 diabetes to cancer. More research is needed.
What Is Hyssop?
- Hyssop is a perennial plant which is native to the Mediterranean region and has been imported and naturalized in the US and Canada. It grows along roadsides and is sometimes found as a garden herb. Hyssop is quite similar in appearance to other members of the mint family. Its volatile oil possesses a highly aromatic camphor-like smell.
What Is It Used for?
- Traditional/Ethnobotanical uses
Hyssop has been noted for centuries in herbal medicine. In addition, there are a number of references in the Bible to plants called "hyssop," although there is considerable controversy regarding the actual identity of these plants. There is little evidence that the plant mentioned in … - Miscellaneous uses
The plant has been used in herbal medicine for the treatment of sore throats, colds, hoarseness, and as an expectorant. Some herbalists also believe that hyssop has beneficial effects for asthma, urinary tract inflammation, and appetite stimulation. Its effectiveness in relieving gas an…
Pregnancy/Lactation
- Avoid use. Documented adverse effects. Hyssop has emmenagogue (to stimulate menstrual flow) and abortive effects.
Toxicology
- Hyssop is classified among plants "generally recognized as safe (GRAS)" by the FDA; however, 3 recent studies demonstrate convulsant actions associated with the plant's use in rats.
Further Information
- Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances. Medical Disclaimer
Overview
Hyssopus officinalis or hyssop is a shrub in the Lamiaceae or mint family native to Southern Europe, the Middle East, and the region surrounding the Caspian Sea. Due to its purported properties as an antiseptic, cough reliever, and expectorant, it has been used in traditional herbal medicine.
Description
Hyssop is a brightly coloured shrub or subshrub that ranges from 30 to 60 cm (12 to 24 in) in height. The stem is woody at the base, from which grow a number of upright branches. Its leaves are lanceolate, dark green, and from 2 to 2.5 cm (3⁄4 to 1 in) long.
During the summer, hyssop produces pink, blue, or, more rarely, white fragrant flowers. These give rise to small oblong tetra-achenes.
History
A plant called hyssop has been in use since classical antiquity. Its name is a direct adaptation from the Greek ὕσσωπος (hyssopos). The Hebrew word אזוב (ezov, esov, or esob) and the Greek word ὕσσωπος probably share a common (but unknown) origin. The name hyssop appears as a translation of ezov in some translations of the Bible, notably in Psalms 51:7: "Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean", but researchers have suggested that the Biblical accounts refer no…
Cultivation
Hyssop is resistant to drought, and tolerant of chalky, sandy soils. It thrives in full sun and warm climates.
Cultivars include 'Blue Flower'.
Harvest
Under optimal weather conditions, herb hyssop is harvested twice yearly, once at the end of spring and once more at the beginning of autumn. The plants are preferably harvested when flowering in order to collect the flowering tips.
Once the stalks are cut, they are collected and dried either stacked on pallets to allow for draining or hung to dry. The actual drying process takes place in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, where the …
Essential oil
The essential oil includes the chemicals thujone and phenol, which give it antiseptic properties. Its high concentrations of thujone and chemicals that stimulate the central nervous system, including pinocamphone and cineole, can provoke epileptic reactions. The oil of hyssop can cause seizures and even low doses (2–3 drops) can cause convulsions in children.
Uses
The fresh herb is commonly used in cooking. Za'atar is a famous Middle Eastern herbal mixture, some versions of which include dried Hyssop leaves.
Essence of hyssop can be obtained by steaming, and is used in cooking to a lesser extent.
The plant is commonly used by beekeepers to produce nectar from which western honey bees make a rich and aromatic honey.
External links
• Media related to Hyssopus officinalis at Wikimedia Commons
• Data related to Hyssopus officinalis at Wikispecies