Hyssop

Hyssopus officinalis

Hyssop is a perennial shrub in the mint family. It is a narrow, upright shrub that grows to about 70cm tall and only about 15cm wide. It loves sun, so a hot sunny position with well drained soil is best. When this plant is nourished enough it will produce small vibrant blue flowers. It looks very attractive in the garden, and bees love it. It’s also a favourite with butterflies and hummingbirds. Traditionally Hyssop was used in ancient times as an insecticide, therefore, it makes a very good companion plant. It will repel flea beetles and cabbage moths, so planting near your cabbages and grapevines is a great place for this plant. Hyssop is a flavourful addition to salads soups and stews. Although the Hyssop is not for everyone, as it has quite a bitter aroma and flavour. Extracts of this plant have been used in soaps and perfumes, and to flavour liqueurs, puddings, and candy. When harvesting hyssop, dry the stems indoors away from sunlight, then remove the leaves and flowers. You can then grind these and store in a jar or air tight container away from sunlight. The woody stems lack flavour. To harvest the seeds, let the seed pods brown and dry out, the seeds are then easily removed, also store these in an air tight container out of the sun. Hyssop has expectorant, anti inflammatory and tonic affects. It can also lower fever. The flowers can be used for coughs. And the entire plant is used for fevers, bronchitis, upper respiratory tract infections, and colds. It can also be used to aid digestion, and to ease flatulence and colic. The flowers and leaves are also used on cuts and bruises. And the essential oils of this plant can be added to baths to help chest and bronchial problems. This also helps combat exhaustion. All in all, this herb is a great little all rounder that’s easy to grow!