Hyssop

This rather expensive essential oil is effective in helping to treat female disorders and to relieve monthly water retention, while being excellent to help the respiratory system get rid of mucus and bronchial spasms. It can be used to treat bronchitis, asthma, influenza and colds, while helping wounds heal and dispersing bruises on the skin.

This shrub decorates the Mediterranean area, is about 60 cm (2 feet) high and is very attractive to bees. The name Hyssopus was used by Hippocrates and was derived from the Hebrew word 'ezob' which means 'holy herb'. It is mentioned in the Old Testament, where the herb was used for purification, yet the reference could also possibly refer to Origanum syriacum.

It has a woody, hairy stem, small lance-shaped green leaves and purple-blue flowers and was well known in ancient times, and was referred to in the Bible for its cleansing effect in connection with plague, leprosy and chest ailments.

It was also used for purifying sacred places and as a strewing herb in the Middle Ages, to ward off lice, while the Benedictine monks introduced it to Europe in the 10th century as an ingredient for liqueurs

The therapeutic properties of hyssop oil are anti-rheumatic, astringent, antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, cicatrisant, digestive, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, febrifuge, hypertensive, nervine, sudorific, stimulant, tonic, vermifuge and vulnerary.

Hyssop oil gives a feeling of alertness and helps with anxiety and fatigue and is therefore useful during convalescence as a tonic. It is also effective in cases of respiratory problems and viral infections, such as colds, coughs, sore throats, influenza, bronchitis, asthma, catarrh and tonsillitis.

It helps with colic, flatulence and indigestion, while it helps to regulate circulation and is helpful when used to raise low blood pressure.

During monthly periods, where water retention can be a problem, hyssop oil helps to balance this. In general, this oil benefits the menstrual cycle and helps with amenorrhea and leucorrhoea. It has good healing properties and helps with bruises as well.

Hyssop oil is a powerful oil and and helps to relieve respiratory problems, digestive disorders, genito-urinary conditions and skin conditions, like bruises, eczema, inflammation and dermatitis.

Blends well with

Angelica, Clary Sage, Geranium, Orange, Tangerine, Melissa and Rosemary.

Precautions

Hyssop oil is non-irritant and non-sensitizing, but does contain pinocamphone and should therefore be used in moderation and should be avoided during pregnancy and by people suffering from epilepsy.

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