Hyssopus Officinalis
Hyssop Herb / Hyssopus Officinalis / Organic Dried Hyssop / Herbal Tea / Hyssop Stems
Origin: Bulgaria
Botanical Name: Hyssopus officinalis
Other Names: Hisopo, Curdukotu, Hastipippili
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. A plant called hyssop has been in use since classical antiquity. Suggestions abound for the modern day correlation of biblical hyssop ranging from a wall plant like moss or fern, to widely used culinary herbs like thyme, rosemary or marjoram. Another suggestion is the caper plant which is known to grow in the rocky soils of the region and along walls. This plant can be eaten, and the leaves are commonly used as an aromatic herb in many recipes. Dried hyssop is used as a spice in cooking.
Herb hyssop leaves are used as an aromatic condiment. The leaves have a lightly bitter taste due to its tannins, and an intense minty aroma. Due to its intensity, it is used moderately in cooking. The herb is also used to flavor liqueur, and is part of the official formulation of Chartreuse. It is also a key ingredient in many formulations of absinthe, where it is the main source of the green colour.
Using: Put 2-3 teaspoons of hyssop in boiling water. Let it brew for 10-15 minutes.
Traditional Use
Hyssop is a fragrant, blue-flowered Mediterranean herb mentioned since biblical times. It is traditionally used:
- To support the respiratory system and clear, comfortable breathing in the cold season
- To soothe the throat
- To ease bloating and gas and support comfortable digestion
- As a gargle and mouth rinse
- In the kitchen, in small amounts, with meat, soups and salads
Harvest & Character
Harvested July and August during flowering, in dry, sunny weather: only the top 15–20 cm of the stems are cut. Square stems, narrow leaves and blue flower spikes with a strong, pleasant, camphor-like aroma.
Please note: Use only small amounts. Not for pregnancy, children, or people with epilepsy or high nervous excitability.
Disclaimer: These statements and products have not been evaluated by the FDA. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or condition. If you have a health concern or condition, consult you doctor. Always consult a medical doctor before modifying your diet or using any new product.
