The Encyclopedia of Crystals, Herbs, and New Age Elements: An A to Z Guide to New Age Elements and How to Use Them - Adams Media 2016

Hyssop
The Power of Herbs: Herbs and Spices

ORIGINS

Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) is a plant in the mint family with spikes of blue or purple flowers and aromatic leaves. The hyssop plant is of Eurasian origin but also grows in North America. Both the leaves and flowers of the hyssop plant are used for medicinal and other purposes, and hyssop oil is used as a flavoring and a fragrance. Beekeepers love hyssop, as it produces a rich, aromatic honey.

HISTORY/LORE

Though it is not identified by name, it is believed that hyssop is one of the aromatic herbs mentioned in the Bible as a purification substance, particularly to cleanse the sinful. The herbs were dipped in water or vinegar and then waved like a wand over the afflicted persons, often lepers.

USES

Healing Uses: Hyssop tea is effective as an expectorant or cough suppressant, and it can also be used to treat digestive and intestinal problems, including gas and loss of appetite. Adding hyssop to bathwater eases the pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis. As a salve, hyssop treats bruises, insect bites, and bee stings. Hyssop essential oil can help prevent infection.

Magical Uses: This cleansing herb can be used to remove curses, purge negativity, or purify a space. In the home, hyssop protects against thieves and trespassers. Combined with other cleansing herbs like sage, it is useful for smudging to clear away unwanted energies. Planted in the garden it creates a positive energy flow. Hyssop attracts faeries and benevolent natural spirits and keeps wicked spirits at bay.

Personal/Spiritual Growth: This herb promotes spiritual opening. Add it to bathwater to cleanse the spirit, or burn it to break bad patterns, disengage from negative attachments, and move forward in a positive way. Hyssop essential oil can be used in aromatherapy to calm an anxious mind and bring clarity and focus.