Hyssop
- Hyssop is a plant. The parts that grow above ground are used to make medicine.
Contents
Uses
- Hyssop is used for digestive and intestinal problems including liver and gallbladder conditions, intestinal pain, intestinal gas, colic, and loss of appetite.
- It is also used for respiratory problems including coughs, the common cold, respiratory infections, sore throat, and asthma.
- Other uses include urinary tract infection (UTI), poor circulation, HIV/AIDS, and menstrual cramps.
- Some people use hyssop as a gargle; in baths to cause sweating; and on the skin for treating skin irritations, burns, bruises, and frostbite.
- In foods, hyssop oil and extract are used as a flavoring.
- In manufacturing, hyssop oil is used as a fragrance in soaps and cosmetics.
Benefits
- The chemicals in hyssop may affect the heart and may increase secretions in the lungs.
Cautions
- Hyssop is considered safe for most people in the amounts commonly found in foods and in medicinal amounts. However, do not use the oil product because it has caused seizures in some people.
- Pregnancy and breast-feeding: It is UNSAFE to use hyssop during pregnancy because it might cause the uterus to contract or start menstruation. These effects could lead to a miscarriage. It’s not known whether hyssop is safe to use during breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
- Children: It’s UNSAFE to give hyssop to children. Convulsions were reported in a child who took 2-3 drops of hyssop oil over several days.
- Seizures: If you have a history of having seizures, don’t use hyssop. It might trigger seizures or make them worse.
Other Names
Herbe de Joseph, Herbe Sacrée, Herbe Sainte, Hiope, Hisopo, Hissopo, Hyssopus officinalis, Hysope, Hysope Officinale, Jufa, Rabo De Gato, Ysop.
References
Source: WebMD, “Hyssop”, www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/