Hyssop can be used as a remedy for bronchitis, as an expectorant, for digestion as a decoction
For sore throats problems as a gargle.
The plant does contain anti-viral and antiseptic properties, and is safe for use in moderation.
Externally, Hyssop leaves can be made into an Ointment or pounded into a poultice - add tea or water, and maybe some oatmeal to reach desired consistency. This can be used for treating, cuts, scrapes, bruises, cold sores, herpes sores, and to heal scars.
To make a Hyssop compress, use one ounce of herb to 1 pint of boiling water. Let it steep for up to 30 minutes, covered, then cool, soak a clean cloth in it and apply.
Hyssop is an evergreen, bushy herb that grows to 1 to 2 feet high. It has square stem and linear leaves. The flowers are arranged in whorls of six- to fifteen. The attractive flowers of Hyssop grow in spikes and are either deep blue or pink. The flowers are very fragrant and attractive to bees. It has a minty taste and its woody stems have small pointed leaves
The name 'hyssop' can be traced back almost unchanged through the Greek hyssopos and Hebrew esob. In the New Testament, a sponge soaked in sour wine or vinegar was stuck on a branch of hyssop and offered to Jesus of Nazareth on the cross just before he died. Both Matthew and Mark mention the occasion but refer to the plant using the general term "kalamos", which is translated as "reed" or "stick". The Book of Exodus records that the blood of the sacrifices was applied to the doorposts using hyssop on the night of Passover. Its purgative properties are also mentioned in the Book of Psalms.
The seeds are sown in spring and the seedlings planted out 40-50 cm apart. Hyssop can also be propagated from heel cuttings or root division in spring or autumn. Hyssop should be grown in full sun on well drained soil, and will benefit from occasional clipping. It is short-lived, and the plants will need to be replaced every few years. Ideal for use as a low hedge or border within the herb garden.
Hyssop also has uses in the garden, it is said to be a good companion plant to cabbage, partly because it will lure away the Cabbage White butterfly. It has also "been found to improve the yield from grapevines if planted along the rows, particularly if the terrain is rocky or sandy, and the soil is not as easy to work as it might be". Hyssop is said to be antagonistic to radishes, and they should not be grown nearby. Hyssop also attracts bees, hoverflies and butterflies, thus has a place in the wild garden as well as being useful in controlling pests and encouraging pollination without the use of unnatural methods.
Hyssop leaves can be preserved by drying. They should be harvested on a dry day at the peak of their maturity and the concentration of active ingredients is highest. They should be dried quickly, away from bright sunlight in order to preserve their aromatic ingredients and prevent oxidation of other chemicals. Good air circulation is required, such as an airing cupboard with the door left open, or a sunny room, aiming for a temperature of 20-32°C. Hyssop leaves should dry out in about six days, any longer and they will begin to discolour and lose their flavour. The dried leaves are stored in clean, dry, labelled airtight containers, and will keep for 12-18 months.
