Hyssopus officinalis is a bushy, evergreen perennial used in the treatment of numerous afflictions. Commonly known as hyssop, this aromatic and medicinal herb has been used to treat bronchitis, asthma, digestive ailments, insomnia, diabetes, and many other disorders. Hyssopus officinalis is often made into an extract or tea, and it can also be used externally in a poultice or ointment. The flowers and leaves contain the substances that cause hyssopus officinalis to be a popular plant in the herbal healer’s medicine chest.
It is antibiotic, carminative, antispasmodic, antifungal, and antiseptic. Hyssopus officinalis has many other healing properties since it is also a stomachic, tonic, astringent, expectorant, and cough suppressant. The plant has the ability to lower fevers, and when the tea is gargled, the analgesic effect of this medicinal herb will soothe a sore throat. It is believed to contain constituents that can enhance the immune system, and is sometimes used in the treatment of people with the autoimmune deficiency virus commonly known as AIDS.
Hyssopus officinalis is also a diuretic used as a natural remedy for edema. Its diuretic properties cause more frequent urination, which can help lower blood pressure and flush toxins from the body. Hyssop tea is also good for the heart.
The mashed leaves can be placed directly on the skin or made into a salve or poultice to soothe burns, bruises, and cuts. Topical application also speeds the healing of wounds. An infusion of the leaves can be used as a medicinal wash to treat bruised, burned, scarred, and abraded skin. External application soothes the pain, inflammation, and swelling caused by rheumatoid arthritis and other joint complaints. A compress can be made of the cold tea and placed over the eyes to help remove traces of fatigue.
Hyssopus officinalis is a sedative used in the treatment of insomnia, nervous tension, stress, and anxiety. Its expectorant component helps thin and flush out mucus to clear the lungs and sinuses, making it a popular folk remedy for colds, bronchitis, and other respiratory infections. Antiviral properties in hyssopus officinalis ease the symptoms of flu.
The carminative and stomachic constituents in hyssopus officinalis are good for the entire digestive system. Hyssop tea eliminates gas and cures flatulence. It also relieves stomach ache, nausea, and indigestion.
Women with menstrual problems can be helped by the emmenagogue properties of hyssop, which means drinking the tea can help a woman with irregular periods to become regular. Hyssop can also help ease some of the symptoms menstruation can cause such as nausea, insomnia, and lethargy, As well, its sedative properties can reduce irritability.