Hyssop tea comes from an evergreen herb that originally grew in southern Europe along the Mediterranean, and in central Asia. When hyssop is brewed, it releases a minty flavor and may have several potential health benefits. Many people brew hyssop into a tea to help remove phlegm, treat bronchitis or soothe coughs and sore throats. Other medicinal uses may include improved digestion, lower blood sugar, and it may help relieve intestinal congestion and regulate blood pressure as well. Some herbalists recommend steeping one spoonful of dried hyssop in hot water for 10 minutes. People often drink two to three cups of tea a day.
Hyssop tea is most commonly recommended to treat cold symptoms. The warm liquid might relieve soreness of the throat, and the hyssop may reduce phlegm which can cause a persistent cough or a sinus infection. Many people who drink hyssop tea report being able to breathe easier and enjoy a healthier day-to-day life.
Hyssop tea might also work to naturally soothe nerves. Some people will sip a cup of tea to ease anxiety before taking a difficult exam, speaking in front of a crowd, or boarding an airplane.
Those who suffer from a loss of appetite might turn to hyssop to improve their hunger. The herb typically promotes both a healthy appetite and normal digestion. Hyssop tea might also be able to help people trying to embrace low cholesterol or low sugar diets. Herbalists often recommend hyssop as a natural way for these people to regulate their high blood sugar or blood pressure.
Medicinal herb gardeners can grow their own hyssop in a cool partially shaded environment. Hyssop herbs are usually low maintenance and do not need a lot of water; it can even be grown on a balcony or in a container garden. Gardeners will usually harvest the flowers, sometimes before they bloom, to create a medicinal tea. Some herbalists also make use of the leaves and stems for hyssop tea. Hyssop is commonly harvested in late summer.
Hyssop tea has been used throughout history both as a medicine and an internal cleanser. In Biblical times, hyssop was used to make a holy tea. It was said to have spiritual properties that could clean holy sanctuaries. Some people drank this tea believing it could cleanse their souls from wrongdoing.
Hyssop is usually safe to consume, but it is not recommended for pregnant women. An herbalist might encourage those interested in hyssop tea to talk with a health-care specialist beforehand. If any side effects arise, tea drinkers might want to discontinue use until they can speak with their doctor.