Potassium permanganate for plant health is reliable and irreplaceable. The medicinal properties of hyssop, and how to use the power of a natural antiseptic

There are many valuable plants that naturally have excellent medicinal qualities. Hyssop also belongs to the category of similar herbs, the usefulness of which was known to people in ancient times. In order to get a correct idea about this plant, it is worth looking at the photo of hyssop for its beneficial properties and contraindications. This herb has long been used to help during colds.

Features of medicinal hyssop

Naturalists identify approximately 50 varieties of this shrub, but it is the medicinal hyssop that is valuable to humans. It grows almost everywhere in Russia; it is also present in certain places on the European continent, in the North African expanses, and in the western part of Asia.

The shrub is most useful during flowering. During this period, it contains essential oil, oleic, ascorbic acids, hyssop herb promotes the rapid healing of wounds, increases the human body’s immunity to various diseases. Recently, experts have discovered that this plant also contains B vitamins, which only enhances the undoubted healing qualities of the shrub.

Hyssop also acts as an excellent honey plant. Honey is used to improve appetite, it is an excellent tonic for the stomach, this substance also perfectly helps in cases of diarrhea, flatulence, and relieves a person from an annoying, unpleasant cough.

Beneficial features

The hyssop subshrub has extensive beneficial properties. It is used as an expectorant, laxative, wound healing and anthelmintic. The preparations of this plant have an antiseptic and antimicrobial effect. Hyssop, due to its antispasmodic properties, soothes stomach pain. Remedies based on the semi-shrub increase blood pressure and also act against various types of fungus.

What does hyssop treat?

Hyssop in folk medicine is used in the treatment of conditions and diseases such as:


The healing properties of hyssop for women

Traditional healers advise women to pay attention to the healing properties of hyssop during menopause. Regular consumption of tea with the addition of the plant will relieve unpleasant symptoms during this difficult period for any of us.

  • Tearfulness, causeless resentment and irritability will pass.
  • Sleep will improve.
  • The condition during hot flashes will improve, they will become less severe.
  • The sweating will go away.

The manifestations of menopause will also be relieved by an infusion of 2 teaspoons of hyssop per glass of boiling water. Leave to stand until the infusion has cooled completely, and then drink a third of a glass half an hour before meals.

In case of erosion, douching with a decoction of hyssop should be done.

In cosmetology, hyssop is added to aromatic water, which perfectly relieves swelling and treats irritation. But the oil of the plant is most often used.

Hyssop flowers

Hyssop flowers and leaves are used to treat various skin diseases, bruises and wounds. In addition, infusions and decoctions from these parts of the plant are used externally for rinsing, and relieve inflammation in the oral cavity. Preparations from these parts of this medicinal shrub are indicated for various gastrointestinal problems.

Decoction

A decoction of hyssop flowers and leaves is indicated in the treatment of diseases such as: chronic bronchitis; catarrh of the respiratory tract; bronchial asthma; angina. In addition, the decoction eliminates inflammation of the urinary tract. It is prepared like this: 100 g of plant stems and flowers are poured with a liter of hot water and boiled for 5 minutes. Half a glass of sugar is added here, then the decoction is consumed per day, 100 ml.

Tincture

For flatulence and chronic colitis, preparations from a plant such as hyssop are used. You and I already know what it is. The tincture is used externally as compresses that accelerate wound healing. To prepare it, 100 g of plant herb needs to be poured with a liter of dry white wine. Then the tincture is put away for 3 weeks in a cool and dark place, while the product must be shaken regularly. Before use, the tincture is filtered. Take a teaspoon three times a day.

Infusion

An infusion of the hyssop plant (you can see a photo of the medicinal subshrub here) has a stimulating effect on the secretion of our digestive glands, in addition, it increases appetite and reduces fermentation processes occurring in the intestines. It is used externally for diseases of the pharynx and oral cavity for rinsing, in addition, for conjunctivitis, it is used to wash the eyes.

It has been proven that it helps get rid of the herpes virus, therefore, hyssop is used externally during exacerbation of this disease. Place 20 g of chopped and dry herbs in a thermos, then add a liter of hot water and leave for 25 minutes. The infusion is taken half a glass 3 times a day.

Syrup

Hyssop plant syrup is used as an expectorant. What it is? This is a product that is prepared from 100 g of raw materials per liter of boiling water. The resulting mixture is infused for half an hour. Then 1.5 kilograms of sugar are added to it, after which it is evaporated to the consistency of a viscous syrup. Use the product up to 5 times a day, one tablespoon at a time.

Harm and contraindications

When taken for a long time, hyssop can cause harm to the body, so it is not recommended to use it for longer than 1 week without consulting a doctor. It is strictly forbidden to use hyssop in the treatment of:


Hyssop is the very herb that everyone should have in their medicine cabinet. According to some reports, hyssop infusion is much more effective at thinning mucus than many antitussive medications. And its diuretic properties are even higher than those of the well-known Phytolysin. When a cold or bronchitis begins, hyssop can be the most reliable and reliable means of salvation - the author of the article has seen this from her own experience.

Medicinal hyssop has long been considered a weed, the reason for this is the frequent growth of wild species near homes, as well as on roadsides. Now this plant is actively cultivated as a quality spice, as well as to obtain valuable essential oil.

Habitat

In its homeland, in the Mediterranean countries, hyssop grows wild on the dry, rocky soils of slopes and hills. It is widely grown as an ornamental plant due to its bright and long-lasting flowering. The conditions of Central Asia, Southern Ukraine, the European part of Russia and the Caucasus Mountains are suitable for cultivation. In places where it is grown, it can transform into a wild form, the medicinal properties of which gradually decrease, so the plantation sites are regularly changed every five years.

Morphological characteristics

Hyssop officinalis is a subshrub. Cultivated species are impressive in size - up to a meter high, while wild species are smaller, up to 50 cm.

  • Root. The tap root system is represented by an impressive central root, capable of becoming lignified, and numerous lateral roots.
  • Stem. Several erect stems extend from the root, the surface of which may be pubescent or bare. The stems have a tetrahedral cylindrical shape, actively branch, and eventually become woody at the root.
  • Leaves. The larger ones are located at the bottom of the stems, the smaller ones - near the inflorescences. The petiole is short or absent. The shape of the leaves is lanceolate or linear-lanceolate, the edges are slightly curled down. Length varies from 2 cm to 4 cm.
  • Flowers. From three to seven small flowers form a one-sided spike-shaped inflorescence emerging from the axil of the upper leaf. The corolla is colored blue, bright purple, and less often pink.
  • Fetus. Complex, capsule-like, divided into four seed-containing parts called erems.

Hyssop officinalis blooms in July. During long warm summers, flowering continues until September. The fruiting period begins in August and ends in October, when all the fruits fall off on their own. A characteristic feature of the plant is the presence of a spicy odor in all its parts.

Blank

The raw materials of medicinal hyssop are young shoots with inflorescences. You should start collecting from the beginning of June to the beginning of July, when the plant is just blooming.

  • Collection. Green shoots with inflorescences are cut off - only the tender top. The woody part must be left behind. In favorable climatic conditions, the stems quickly grow and bloom again.
  • Preparation. The grass is sorted for mechanical inclusions and plant impurities. Damaged branches and crumbling inflorescences are selected.
  • Drying. To dry, the shoots are tied in small bunches and hung in a shaded place, preferably with through ventilation. This way the plant dries out faster. When using dryers, a reduced temperature regime (30-40 ° C) is used to preserve the essential oil.
  • Storage. After complete drying, the grass is crushed and packed in thick paper or plastic bags.

Storage in a dark, dry, ventilated place is possible for two years. After the expiration date, the raw material of medicinal hyssop loses its value due to the volatilization of the essential oil.

Composition of plant materials

The benefits of medicinal hyssop are provided by the high concentration of essential oil. It contains the following volatile substances: pinocamphone, limolene, cineole, myrcene, pinene, carene, humulene, cymene, cardinene, camphene. The most powerful antiseptic is cineole. It imparts medicinal hyssop with bactericidal, fungicidal, and antiviral properties. In addition to essential oil, the raw materials of medicinal hyssop contain biologically active substances.

  • Flavonoids. Diosmin, hyssopin. They have a vasoprotective effect, normalize biochemical blood parameters, prevent the formation of blood clots, improve the secretion of internal glands, stimulate tissue regeneration, as well as the functioning of the immune system. They have expectorant and bronchodilator properties.
  • Acids. Triterpene, phenolcarbolic, fatty. Participants in exchange processes. Stabilize cell membranes. They have a digestive stimulating effect.
  • Glycosides. They stimulate the heart, improve the conductivity of nerve fibers, and have antispasmodic and diuretic properties.
  • Tannins. They have an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic effect due to their enveloping effect.
  • Bitterness. Stimulate appetite, improve the functioning of the digestive system, promote the production and discharge of bile.

The wide chemical composition of hyssop, with a predominance of antibacterial substances, determines the main significance of the plant - a natural antiseptic.

Medicinal properties

The plant contains substances of various natures with powerful pharmacological actions. Their diversity is due to the wide range of therapeutic effects of medicinal hyssop.

  • Effect on the central nervous system. Glycosides, vitamins, acids and phytoncides have a tonic effect on the human nervous system. A mild sedative effect in combination with a muscle relaxant helps relieve nervous tension without causing drowsiness. Hyssop has been proven to improve memory, concentration and thought processes.
  • Effect on the respiratory system. Hyssop has the ability to relieve bronchospasm, due to which it exhibits an antitussive effect. Stimulation of mucus production helps to liquefy thick mucus and facilitate its removal, developing an expectorant effect. The listed properties, in combination with the antiseptic effect of essential oils, help eliminate inflammatory diseases of the lungs and bronchi of an infectious nature.
  • Effect on the gastrointestinal tract. Hyssop officinalis helps improve digestion by regulating the secretion of the digestive glands. Under its influence, the fermentation of gastric and pancreatic juices improves. Taken together, they exhibit choleretic, mild laxative, and anti-inflammatory effects.
  • Effect on the genitourinary system. Biologically active substances of hyssop stimulate peripheral blood circulation, relieve spasm of smooth muscles, increasing the volume of blood entering the kidneys. This contributes to a slight increase in diuresis.
  • Effect on the skin. A mixture of phytoncides, essential oils and tannins promotes accelerated wound healing and reduces inflammation. The activity of cineole against staphylococci makes it possible to eliminate purulent wounds and abscesses with the help of hyssop herb, as well as prevent infection of minor injuries. The plant promotes the regeneration of the mucous membrane of the oral and nasal cavities, eyes.

The healing properties of medicinal hyssop can also have a negative effect on the human body. Side effects of the plant include:

  • arrhythmia;
  • dizziness;
  • heartburn;
  • convulsions;
  • decrease in pressure.
  • nausea and vomiting.
  • pregnancy;
  • breastfeeding period;
  • epilepsy;
  • hypertonic disease;
  • ulcer of the stomach and duodenum.

If you have any chronic diseases, treatment with hyssop should be agreed with your doctor. The use of the herb for children under 12 years of age is contraindicated.

The use of medicinal hyssop in different areas

Treatment with hyssop is popular in folk medicine. It can be consumed in the form of tea when the body is weak and lacks strength, to combat chronic fatigue and a tendency to depression. With the help of the plant, neuroses, mental disorders, memory and concentration problems are treated. Traditional healers especially often recommend hyssop to older people. The plant extract helps normalize thought processes and helps cope with senile dementia syndrome.

The use of hyssop is recommended to speed up the body's recovery after illness or surgery. The herb can fight anemia, so it can be used after heavy blood loss. For women, the plant helps overcome menopause and the unpleasant phenomena that accompany it: hot flashes, irritability, absent-mindedness. Hyssop is popularly used to urgently cure a hangover. Eating the plant relieves headaches, eliminates limb tremors, nausea, and “clears the mind.”

The beneficial effect of hyssop on the digestive tract is manifested in chronic forms of colitis, as well as flatulence and dysbacteriosis. A mild laxative effect occurs due to increased bile secretion. The mild diuretic effect of the plant allows it to be used for the prevention of urolithiasis. The removal of salt deposits and anti-inflammatory activity give hyssop the ability to alleviate rheumatism, gout, arthritis and arthrosis.

Treatment of asthma with medicinal hyssop is based on the bronchodilator ability of the plant. Elimination of bronchospasm stops the attack of suffocation, and regular use of hyssop preparations reduces the risk of its recurrence. Expectorant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties are widely used to normalize the functioning of the respiratory system:

  • with bronchitis;
  • in the treatment of tuberculosis;
  • with pneumonia;
  • colds;
  • senile cough due to dry mucous membranes;
  • inflammation of the upper respiratory tract.

Drinking hyssop for colds helps to cope with a runny nose, elevated body temperature, and aching joints. Immunomodulatory properties speed up recovery. When taking hyssop, shortness of breath in heart failure is eliminated.

Water extracts of hyssop are actively used externally. Treatment of the oral mucosa is carried out by regular rinsing with hyssop. Its properties help eliminate sore throat, stomatitis, gingivitis, periodontal disease, gumboil, bad breath, hoarseness and loss of voice. The drugs are also used for bacterial conjunctivitis, as an antiseptic.

The plant eliminates excessive sweating and is therefore used as a natural deodorant. Among the indications for using hyssop externally: trophic ulcers, burns, scratches, boils, and boils heal much faster if compresses are made from hyssop. They also prevent infection of eczematous skin lesions and also eliminate dryness. Extracts can be applied to joints affected by rheumatism, contusions, and bruises to reduce inflammation.

Recipes

Pure hyssop essential oil is actively used for cosmetic purposes, to enrich the composition of antibacterial products for the skin. To obtain a sedative effect, essential oil is added to the bath. Fresh hyssop is widely used for general strengthening of the body - leaves and inflorescences are added to salads, imbuing them with beneficial properties and enhancing the taste. In folk medicine, medications prepared at home are used. In order not to experience the harm of medicinal hyssop, you need to follow the recipes for preparing the drugs.

Juice

Peculiarities. It is used to eliminate withdrawal symptoms, and also as a remedy for excessive sweating.

Preparation and use

  1. Fresh herbs are carefully crushed together with inflorescences; you can chop them in a blender bowl or pass through a meat grinder.
  2. The resulting pulp is wrapped in gauze, folded several times.
  3. Squeeze the juice by hand into a clean container.
  4. Take 40 drops orally in a glass of water for a hangover.
  5. For sweating, hyssop juice is used after dilution with clean water 1:1. The resulting substance is used to wipe particularly sweaty areas several times a day.

Tea

Peculiarities. Taken orally as a tonic, tonic, anti-cold and expectorant.

Preparation and use

  1. Two teaspoons of chopped herbs are poured into a metal container.
  2. Pour one glass of clean cold water.
  3. Place the container on low heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Immediately after boiling, remove the container from the heat and leave to steep for five minutes.
  5. Strain and take up to two cups per day.

Infusion

Peculiarities. Used to improve digestion, as a mild diuretic, and also to stabilize cardiac activity.

Preparation and use

  1. Inflorescences without leaves (10 g) are poured with half a glass of boiling water.
  2. Leave the mixture to infuse for half an hour.
  3. Strain, take the entire volume twice a day.

Decoction

Peculiarities. It is used as an external remedy in the treatment of wounds, skin injuries, inflammation, dermatitis, and joint pain.

Preparation and use

  1. Three teaspoons of hyssop are poured into 300 ml of boiling water.
  2. The mixture is placed in a water bath and boiled slowly for half an hour.
  3. After 15 minutes of infusion, the mixture is filtered.
  4. Wash the affected area or apply compresses from the decoction at least twice a day.

Word "hyssop" in Hebrew it means “sacred fragrant herb.” The medicinal potential of hyssop (or blue St. John's wort) has been known to man for many centuries: mentions of this are found in the Bible, the works of Avicenna and Hippocrates, and ancient Russian books. Today, this plant is used in folk medicine as an excellent antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent.

Features of medicinal hyssop

Naturalists identify approximately 50 varieties of this shrub, but it is the medicinal hyssop that is valuable to humans. It grows almost everywhere in Russia; it is also present in certain places on the European continent, in the North African expanses, and in the western part of Asia.

The shrub is most useful during flowering. During this period, it contains essential oil, oleic, ascorbic acids, hyssop herb promotes the rapid healing of wounds, increases the human body’s immunity to various diseases. Recently, experts have discovered that this plant also contains B vitamins, which only enhances the undoubted healing qualities of the shrub.

Hyssop also acts as an excellent honey plant. Honey is used to improve appetite, it is an excellent tonic for the stomach, this substance also perfectly helps in cases of diarrhea, flatulence, and relieves a person from an annoying, unpleasant cough.

Varieties of hyssop herb

This perennial plant, numbering more than 50 species, is used in cooking as an aromatic seasoning, in decorative arts, and also in folk medicine (some of its types will be discussed below).

Hyssop anise

Anise hyssop (the official name of this plant is anise lofant) is a perennial branched plant, the height of which reaches 50 - 110 cm. The beautiful leaves of the plant are distinguished by the presence of purple-brown tan marks. It should be noted that each branch of anise hyssop has a dense, spike-shaped inflorescence, the length of which is 8–15 cm (the inflorescences consist of fairly small flowers of a blue-violet hue). When rubbed, the flowers emit a very pleasant anise aroma.

The plant blooms continuously from July to early October. In this case, each flower lives no longer than a week, but it is replaced by new opening buds, thereby providing the plant with constant decorativeness.

Anise lofant is a honey-bearing essential oil plant with medicinal properties. Thus, anise hyssop is used as an anti-inflammatory and disinfectant in the treatment of colds, sore throats, and bronchitis. In addition, this plant is used in the East as an effective immunostimulating agent, ranking alongside ginseng, eleutherococcus and lemongrass.

Anise hyssop helps to quickly restore the body after various nervous disorders, strokes, and hypertensive crises.

Action of anise hyssop:

  • pressure regulation;
  • improvement of metabolism;
  • reducing the dependence of health status on weather conditions;
  • acceleration of wound healing;
  • relieving fatigue.

The essential oil of this plant has a pronounced bactericidal effect, therefore it is used in the treatment of colds (thick stems of anise hyssop are often added to bath brooms).

If this variety of hyssop is planned to be used as a spicy or medicinal plant immediately after collecting the raw materials, then cutting of fresh greenery (grass) is carried out throughout the entire growing season. If the lofant is harvested for future use, the grass is cut only during the budding and flowering of the plant. At the same time, it is important in the first year of the plant’s life to cut only one shoot from the end of July to the beginning of August (this will give it the opportunity to get stronger and, therefore, prepare for winter). In the future, it is possible to carry out two cuttings of medicinal raw materials during the summer: the first - at a height of about 40 cm from the surface of the earth, and the second - at a height of 15 cm.

The cut raw materials are tied into bundles and dried under a canopy (necessarily in the shade). Dried raw materials are stored in linen bags, paper bags or glass jars.

In cooking, aniseed hyssop is used as an aromatic seasoning for meat dishes, and also as an alternative to peppermint.

Hyssop officinalis (common)

The medicinal hyssop shrub (also called common) has a woody root and woody branches, reaching a height of about 50 - 60 cm. The hard stem contains dark green leaves, distinguished by drooping edges and the presence of small flowers growing in the axils of the leaves. The flowers are predominantly blue (although they can be white or pink). The flowering period of this type of hyssop is July – September.

Hyssop officinalis is widely used as a medicinal plant due to the high content of essential oil and many other elements in the plant that have a beneficial effect on the body.

Hyssop officinalis is used to treat diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, skin, respiratory tract, ENT organs, and eyes.

It is this species that is predominantly used in folk medicine, so the information below concerns specifically medicinal hyssop.

Useful and medicinal properties of medicinal hyssop

Hyssop contains a huge amount of valuable substances, which determine the spectrum of its pharmacological activity. Research by biochemists has shown that hyssop has the following properties:

  • expectorant;
  • antimicrobial;
  • antioxidant;
  • diuretic;
  • pain reliever;
  • sedative.

Useful properties of hyssop

Herbalists deservedly call hyssop the same as St. John's wort - a cure for a hundred diseases.

  • The most widespread use of hyssop's medicinal properties was in the treatment of colds;
  • Herbalists advise using it to directly treat colds, bronchitis, tracheitis, laryngitis and hoarseness in the voice;
  • The herb is used as an excellent antipyretic, expectorant, tonic and antiseptic. The plant promotes gentle mucus discharge, helps cope with sore throat, and prevents secretions from stagnating in the lungs. For older people who often have the problem of dry throat, the products will also help very effectively;
  • Hyssop helps with stomatitis or other diseases of the oral cavity;
  • The antiviral effect of the herb provides significant assistance for conjunctivitis;
  • Normalizes digestion and improves appetite. Helps with intestinal catarrh, chronic constipation, dyspepsia, flatulence and chronic colitis. And not only relieves all symptoms, but also promotes complete recovery;
  • Actively fights bad breath;
  • If you have no contraindications to the use of hyssop, then use remedies from it to treat diseases of the heart and blood vessels, angina pectoris, anemia, rheumatism, increased sweating;
  • In addition, the medicinal plant is an excellent biostimulant. Your memory will improve significantly, it will be much easier to concentrate if you simply drink tea brewed with the plant;
  • Hyssop gently relieves symptoms of depression without causing drowsiness - this is its undoubted advantage;
  • The diuretic effect of blue St. John's wort will relieve you of fine sand in the kidneys;
  • The herb is a natural natural anthelmintic often used in folk medicine to expel helminths.

Used in folk medicine to treat a large number of diseases:

Diseases and conditions in the treatment of which hyssop is most effective as an independent remedy Diseases and conditions for which hyssop is used as an auxiliary herbal remedy, as part of complex collections
  • bronchitis and bronchial asthma tuberculosis colds accompanied by cough and fever
  • angina
  • inflammatory diseases of the oral cavity
  • cystitis and urethritis
  • purulent formations on the skin
  • profuse sweating (including during menopause)
  • poor appetite
  • neuroses and depression
  • depressed digestive function flatulence chronic colitis
  • stomach pain
  • helminthic infestations
  • rheumatism and joint diseases
  • anemia
  • hematomas and bruises
  • menstrual irregularities
  • metabolic disorders
  • fungal infections

Chemical composition

Medicinal hyssop is an essential oil plant. Its main value lies in its essential oil, the content of which ranges from 0.6 to 2%.

Along with this, other biologically active compounds were found in hyssop:

Substances Content in hyssop (mg per 100 g of raw material)
Essential oil components
Terpineol 1,7
Limonene 0,2
Linalool 39
Linalyl acetate 2,4
Cineole 2,7
Terpenyl acetate 3,3
Thymol 1,5
Bornyl acetate 0,7
Pinocamphone 6,1
Isopinocamphone 0,9
Minerals
Potassium 1-1,2
Calcium 1-1,1
Magnesium 1
Silicon 0,35
Aluminum 0,12
Other substances
Organic acids 5,1
Free amino acids 14,2
Related amino acids 45,3
Flavonoids 0,6
Glucose 13,5
Galactose 10,9
Pectic substances 14
Tannins 18

How does the herb hyssop help in a healthy and therapeutic diet?

Hyssop officinalis (pictured) is considered mildly poisonous plant, therefore its use is possible only for medicinal purposes in a limited dosage, but not as a main dish on the menu.

During a diet for weight loss, you can be treated with hyssop - it can in no way harm your health in general or your figure in particular. On the contrary, it will slightly stimulate metabolism and digestive activity.

What can you combine hyssop with?

In traditional medicine recipes there are such effective combinations of hyssop:

  • with licorice and honey - as an antitussive;
  • with calendula - for rinsing the mouth for stomatitis, gingivitis and sore throat;
  • with parsley seeds, chamomile, horsetail and St. John's wort - for cystitis;
  • with raspberries - as a diaphoretic.

In cooking Hyssop is not used so often, but experts say that it can give dishes a unique aroma and piquant taste. It is recommended to add dry crushed hyssop

  • for meat (veal, pork, chicken, turkey, minced meat and sausage);
  • to poultry by-products (chicken liver, liver pate);
  • in soups (with legumes or meat);
  • in sauces in combination with parsley, fennel, marjoram, mint, dill.

Fresh hyssop is used for pickling vegetables (cucumbers and tomatoes) and in cottage cheese dishes.

In the food industry Hyssop is an integral component of Chartreuse liqueur and sorbet.

Where to find hyssop

Hyssop can be found on sale in the form of:

  • herbal tea;
  • medicinal dry raw materials;
  • essential oil.

Very popular hyssop honey– one of the best honey varieties in terms of its quality.

Hyssop is also included in such patented medicines as Linkas cough syrup and the Defender cold preparation.

But most often, hyssop fans prefer to grow this medicinal herb themselves. It reproduces either by seeds or by division - it tolerates transplantation well. Seeds are sown in winter or early spring in fertilized soil. The seedlings must be constantly watered, and then in the summer you can cut off the flowering stems of hyssop.

For medicinal purposes, it is the flowering tops of the stems – up to 20 cm long – that are harvested. They are tied into bunches and hung to dry in the shade in air at a temperature not higher than 35 0– otherwise the healing essential oil will simply disappear.

Usage options

Since hyssop is a potent remedy, you should not consume more than 0.5 g of dry herbs (1 tablespoon) at a time. In cooking, even less: as a seasoning for dishes, the maximum dosage of hyssop is a level teaspoon.

Medicinal forms of hyssop and areas of intended use of this herb:

Dosage form When and how to use
Essential oil
  • rubbing for bronchitis or colds - 10 drops per 2 tablespoons of regular vegetable oil
  • soothing bath for depression or neurosis – dissolve 5 drops of oil in warm water
  • compresses and rubbing against rheumatism - rub a couple of drops into the painful area
  • lotions for ulcers, warts - apply a small amount to the skin area
A decoction of dried stems and inflorescences: leave a teaspoon of raw material for an hour, covered, in a glass of boiling water.
  • ¼ cup orally four times a day after meals - for coughing
  • wash eyes for conjunctivitis
  • rinse your mouth for stomatitis or sore throat
  • make 10-15-minute lotions for skin diseases (dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema)
  • for cervical erosion - douche with a decoction
Tincture of hyssop roots – infuse 50 g of roots in half a liter of vodka for 2 weeks, do not strain
  • take one spoon before meals three times a day - for bronchitis, asthma
  • to get rid of hematomas - lotions from tincture
Honey
  • use as regular honey for colds and dry coughs

Preparation of hyssop

Herbalists advise collecting hyssop during full flowering, at sunrise, in the first phase of the moon - then it has full healing power and will bring maximum benefits.

  • Before you cut the grass, be sure to say hello to the grass and ask permission to collect it. For medicinal purposes, cut off the flowering tops;
  • To properly dry the grass, collect it in small bunches and hang it in a ventilated place, but away from the sun;
  • It is better to store hyssop in a hermetically sealed container.

In our country, the plant has long been grown in industrial conditions, but this is done mainly to extract the most valuable essential oil from it.

Magic

As for the magical properties of this herb, it is one of the main herbs considered anti-demonic - added to a bag of aromatic herbs for bathing, bags and incense to protect against evil forces.
To protect against dark forces, the herb should be used exclusively in the form of smoking or water infusions. Simply dried herbs or alcohol infusions will not help here.
The grass prepared in advance must be dried so that, having lost moisture, the grass acquires fiery energy power. The very power that will increase the ability of the herb to drive away not only all kinds of evil spirits, but also bad intentions and evil intentions that penetrate your thoughts. Smoke from smoking cleanses not only a person, but also his home.

In the Bible it is called bitter herbs, and brooms from it were used to anoint doorposts during the executions of Egypt so that the Angel of Death would pass by and not take the firstborn, brooms from it were used during divine services by the Levites, the most frequently mentioned plant in the Bible after grapes.

If your child has bad dreams, you can add weed to the mattress padding or prepare a small bag of this weed and put it under the pillow. The smell of this herb will protect a child from fright in his sleep, and incense prepared from hyssop will help against enslaving spirits.
By the way, if you dream of hyssop, it means that serious charges will be brought against you, and if a woman has a dream with hyssop, her reputation is at risk.

A stalk of hyssop placed in shoes protects against evil spirits; a twig tucked into your belt or clutched in your hand can add strength and relieve fatigue during long walking. An intelligent and knowledgeable magician who goes on a long journey always takes a sprig of this plant with him.

Magic recipes

PROTECTIVE POTION

  • 3 parts of rue
  • 2 parts rosemary
  • 1 part vetiver
  • 1 part hyssop
  • 1 part mistletoe

Boil as usual, strain and coat every window and door in the house. Pour the remainder down drains and drains to contain them too.
Don't drink!

Product storage features

Dried hyssop herb should be stored in tightly closed paper bags or glass jars with a lid. Shelf life should not exceed 1 year - since the healing essential oil of this “sacred” herb loses its properties relatively quickly.

Traditional medicine recipes based on hyssop

1. Bronchial asthma and suffocation can be prevented with the help of an infusion; for this you need to take 4 tablespoons of the herb, grind it thoroughly, pour it into a thermos, add 1 liter of water, leave for 1 hour. Then strain. Should be taken hot, 30 minutes before meals, 1 tbsp. The course of treatment is 1 month.

2. For diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, hyperhidrosis, you can drink this decoction, this will require a teaspoon of small flowers, leave for 2 hours, take 3 times a day. It is good to wash your eyes with this decoction if they are affected by conjunctivitis.

3. You can cure tinnitus and shortness of breath with the help of powdered leaves, be sure to add honey. You need to take the infusion 1 tsp. 3 times a day, wash down with water.

4. If a person is often bothered by respiratory diseases, you can use this recipe - take 2 teaspoons of dry leaves, pour 1 glass of boiling water, leave for 20 minutes. Take half a glass twice a day. In cases of bronchitis, you need to take a teaspoon of hyssop, add mother and stepmother, pour 200 ml of boiling water, leave for 15 minutes. Drink 2 times a day.

5. You can fight a cold with the following recipe: mix hyssop with mint, pour 200 ml of boiling water, leave, take 1 glass 2 times a day.

6. A collection of sage and hyssop will help get rid of laryngitis and pharyngitis; for this you need to mix everything thoroughly, pour a glass of boiling water, leave and drink. Take twice daily for one week.

7. A recipe based on hyssop and white wine will help you get rid of flatulence and colitis; leave for one month, shake and take.

8. In cases of loss of appetite, you need to take a decoction of hyssop herb, it will require two tablespoons of chopped herb, leave for one hour, strain.

9. For gingivitis and stomatitis, you need to rinse your mouth with an infusion of hyssop, it will require 120 ml of alcohol, 20 grams of herbs, leave for one week, strain. Take a teaspoon of tincture, dilute it in water, rinse your mouth with it.

Hyssop for children

Hyssop is, as mentioned above, a poisonous plant, so it is not recommended to give it to children under 12 years of age. If the advisability of using the plant is confirmed by a doctor, then it is necessary to strictly adhere to the dosages prescribed by him, which differ significantly from adults to a lesser extent.

Gauze compresses soaked in hyssop decoction can be used to treat wounds and bruises in children.

In the old days, it was believed that this plant helped to cope with bad dreams, for which hyssop was added to the stuffing of mattresses (a small bag of hyssop herb was also prepared in advance, which was placed under the child’s pillow).

Hyssop during pregnancy

Medicines containing hyssop are contraindicated during pregnancy as they can cause miscarriage.

Hyssop essential oil

Hyssop essential oil is very popular. It perfectly calms frayed nerves, relieves spasms, and fights allergies. Women often use it to normalize the menstrual cycle. The oil perfectly relieves weather dependence and helps reduce warts and calluses.

The uses for essential oils are also varied. For aromatic baths, just add 10 drops of oil to warm water and 10 minutes of bliss and healing are guaranteed. You should not abuse your stay in such a bath; since hyssop, although it is a medicinal plant and has quite useful properties, is still a mildly poisonous plant, and in certain cases is contraindicated for use.

For inhalation, inhale water steam with the addition of 5 drops of essential oil for 5-7 minutes. Acne, bruises and bruises, warts, eczema, and wounds are often lubricated with essential oil.

For colds and joint pain, a massage using essential oil will come in handy. To do this, 10 drops of ether are mixed with 20 ml of any vegetable oil and rubbed into the body. After applying the oil to the body, there is usually a slight tingling or redness of the skin. There is no need to worry about this; this is a natural property of the plant.

Harm and contraindications

When taken for a long time, hyssop can cause harm to the body, so it is not recommended to use it for longer than 1 week without consulting a doctor.

Hyssop is the very herb that everyone should have in their medicine cabinet. According to some reports, hyssop infusion is much more effective at thinning mucus than many antitussive medications. And its diuretic properties are even higher than those of the well-known Phytolysin. When a cold or bronchitis begins, hyssop can be the most reliable and reliable means of salvation - the author of the article has seen this from her own experience.

Hyssop- an fragrant perennial shrub, a representative of the Lamiaceae family. The plant blooms with white, purple or blue flowers (see photo). Hyssop blooms from July to the beginning of autumn, when fruits form on the bush.

The homeland of the plant is considered to be Central Asia and the Mediterranean. In the wild, the shrub is found in the Caucasus, Crimea, and Altai. Hyssop is found throughout Africa and Eurasia. The shrub was known back in Ancient Greece, where it was known primarily as a medicinal plant. For medicinal purposes, the above-ground part of the herb, that is, the leaves and stem, is used. In ancient times, hyssop was used to perform a cleansing ritual: the plant was soaked in holy water and sprinkled on people, livestock, and homes. People believed that such a ritual would protect the home from evil forces.

Hyssop is considered an excellent honey plant. The honey collected by bees from this plant is one of the most valuable.

Growing: planting and care

It is possible to grow medicinal hyssop in our climate. Hyssop, or, as it is also called, blue St. John's wort, reproduces by seeds. The plant prefers fertile soil. Seeds are planted in early spring in even rows, Row spacing should be 15 cm. The seeds germinate within two weeks.

When hyssop begins to produce leaves, it can be replanted to another location. Replanting is performed when the grass has 5-6 leaves.

Caring for medicinal hyssop consists of regular watering, weeding and mineral fertilizing as needed.

Collection and storage

Hyssop is collected throughout the summer. For medicinal purposes, the above-ground part of the herb is used; the stem and leaves are cut off with a knife. before flowering. The plant should be dried in the shade, away from direct sunlight. Cut hyssop is dried in bunches or spread out in a thin layer. Dried hyssop loses its aroma a little and does not smell as strong. It is better to store the plant in a cool, periodically ventilated area.

Beneficial features

The beneficial properties of hyssop are due to the presence of biologically active substances in its composition. An oil is obtained from the leaves of the plant, which is used both in medicine and in perfume production. On average, hyssop leaves contain up to 2% essential oil, which has anti-traumatic properties. Hyssop oil is applied for bruises and bruises, since it effectively resolves hematomas and reduces bruising.

Fresh hyssop leaves contain large amounts of vitamin C (approximately 170 mg per 100 g). The leaves of the plant can be used as a finished product bactericidal agent.

Hyssop is used in folk medicine to relieve menopause symptoms. To reduce sweating and symptoms of menopause, prepare an infusion of 2 teaspoons of the plant and a glass of boiling water. The mixture is cooled to room temperature and taken a third of a glass 3 times a day half an hour before meals.

Hyssop heals bronchopulmonary diseases, has expectorant properties. Hyssop oil can be added to mixtures for inhalation, provided that there are no allergic reactions to this product. The oil of this plant is used for ear inflammation; it relieves pain well. Hyssop essential oil can be purchased at a pharmacy.

Hyssop oil, aromatic water, and extracts of this plant are widely used in cosmetology. Cosmetic products that contain hyssop extract have a positive effect on the condition of the skin, relieve swelling and irritation. Hyssop oil smoothes the skin, helps with various dermatitis and weeping eczema. Hyssop essential oil can be added to homemade masks and creams to care for problem skin; the oil heals various scratches well and removes acne marks. To treat eczema, it is recommended to use a hyssop bath.

Use in cooking

Hyssop leaves are used in cooking. They go well with legume products and improve the taste of dishes that include beans or peas. The leaves of the plant are added to sausages, soups, meat dishes, and used to prepare olives, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Eastern cuisine uses hyssop leaves to prepare fruit drinks.

Hyssop is often combined with fresh parsley, dill, and celery. Also, the leaves of the bush are added to dishes along with herbs such as mint, marjoram, and basil. Hyssop has a characteristic pungent aroma, which in large quantities can ruin the taste of a dish.. Dry seasoning should be added at the rate of 0.5 grams to soups, 0.3 grams to main courses and 0.2 grams to sauces. This amount will be quite enough to give the dish taste and smell. After adding hyssop, it is not recommended to cover the pan with a lid, as this will spoil the aroma of the dish.

The shoots of the bush have a ginger-sage aroma and a pleasant aftertaste with a characteristic bitterness.

Hyssop occupies an important place in the diet. Adding dried hyssop allows you to prepare a tasty dish even without salt., which is very important for some diets. The calorie content of the product is only 21 kilocalories per 100 grams. The leaves of the plant can be added to fresh salads and when preparing dietary meats, such as veal. The plant gives the meat a tart and spicy flavor. Hyssop is added as a spice to minced meat, pates, and cutlets. Hyssop goes well with fish and potato dishes.

Benefits of hyssop and treatment

The benefits of hyssop have long been known in folk medicine. The healing properties of hyssop can be compared with the properties of sage. Hyssop is used for heart diseases, in particular angina. Scientists have proven that this plant has antistaphylococcal effects. Hyssop also has a positive effect on the nervous system, it can be consumed even by people whose work involves concentrating, since the plant does not cause drowsiness. Hyssop is considered an effective biostimulant; it improves memory and attention.

Avicenna wrote that hyssop has analgesic, wound-healing, and stimulating properties. A decoction of hyssop is taken for asthma, sore throat, and is also indicated for bronchitis. The decoction helps solve the problem of excessive sweating. An infusion of the leaves of the bush is used to gargle a sore throat and is used to wash non-healing wounds. Hyssop infusion can be prepared at home. To do this, pour two teaspoons of the plant with boiling water (400 ml) and leave for half an hour. The infusion can be used both for rinsing and compresses, and for oral administration.

Hyssop is useful for older people, as it stimulates appetite and improves the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. An infusion from this plant normalizes digestion processes.

For lung diseases, an alcoholic tincture of hyssop is prepared. The tincture is effective for asthma, bronchitis, tuberculosis. In order to prepare the tincture at home, you need to pour 50 grams of hyssop with 0.5 liters of alcohol or vodka, then infuse the mixture for a week and take 1 spoon before meals 3-4 times a day.

Hyssop leaves are great for making a healthy drink. Hyssop tea is prepared in this way: 2 tsp. dried or fresh leaves are poured with cold water and brought to a boil. Tea can be taken warm for colds, it helps with cough. Hyssop tea can be combined with other cold-fighting herbs.

Harm of hyssop and contraindications

Hyssop can cause harm to the body due to individual intolerance. It is contraindicated to use hyssop during pregnancy. Also It is contraindicated to take hyssop for people suffering from epilepsy, as the plant can cause spasms. It is not recommended to use hyssop-based products for treatment of hypertensive patients.

With minimal consumption as a seasoning, hyssop cannot cause harm to the body. When treating with traditional methods using hyssop, it is recommended to consult your doctor.

Hyssop is a perennial plant by nature; it reaches a height of up to 500 cm. The herb is distinguished by flowers that are white, pink, purple and have a pleasant delicate aroma.

Hyssop officinalis has another common name - blue St. John's wort. The plant can often be found in Central and Eastern Europe, Asia, and North Africa.

The grass can grow in Ukraine, Belarus, Russia, mainly in the Caucasus. The medicinal properties of the plant have been known since ancient times. The Bible says that hyssop is a sacred plant.

The monks grew it in their gardens, and after flowering they used it for many rituals. Caring for the plant is simple and does not require much attention.

The plant looks unusual - dark green leaves, small and hard, their edges are slightly raised, they have hairs that are capable of secreting essential oil. Thanks to the high content of this oil, the leaves and flowers have their unique bitter taste and aroma, but it is important to remember that the plant has contraindications.

In addition to essential oil, the plant contains tannins and glycosides, which makes it possible to actively use hyssop in perfumery, cooking and medicine. The grass must be planted correctly; in this case, its flowering can be expected from the beginning of June to the end of October, if care was taken accordingly. During this time, medicinal hyssop exudes a spicy herbal aroma.

After the plant fades, fruits appear in its place, which look like long, triangular, egg-shaped nuts. They are often confused with seeds, but the latter are smooth and dark in color, and small. The peculiarity of grass seeds is their tart and spicy aroma, as well as high germination rate - up to 90%. They can be stored for a long time - up to 5 years.

In the Middle Ages, the plant was part of absinthe, to which wormwood was also added. Hyssop officinalis has disinfectant properties, so previously it was used to purify the air by hanging it around the entire perimeter of rooms. The herb has medicinal properties and is used to eliminate head lice. Planting the plant is still common today, since its use in medicine can eliminate serious diseases.

Hyssop is a multifunctional herb; it can be used in different ways at the same time. Due to its decorative appearance, it can be planted in the garden for decoration. The use of the herb has also found its way into cooking. It is used to prepare many dishes mainly because of its pleasant tart aroma and taste. The medicinal properties of the plant are known to many, and therefore its use as a medicine for certain diseases is also advisable.

Benefits and properties of the plant

Hyssop turns out to be not only an ornamental plant, but also a universal medicinal product. The benefits of the herb are explained by its composition. The essential oils contained in the plant have a good effect on processes and systems within the body, helping to eliminate inflammation, regulate brain function, and remove carcinogens. The tannins present in the composition have an astringent and bactericidal effect. Flavonoids increase vascular tone and regulate blood flow, especially in small sections of capillaries. The beneficial properties of hyssop manifest themselves due to the high content of vitamin C, resin and oleanoic acid.

Decoctions and tinctures of the plant have the following properties:

  • expectorant;
  • laxative;
  • anthelmintic;
  • antipyretic;
  • antimicrobial;
  • exciting;
  • antiseptic.

Hyssop allows hematomas to resolve more quickly; the plant’s benefits are also shown in tissue scarring and wound healing. With the help of herbs, it is possible; it is especially often used during menopause, when a woman needs not only constant care, but also the support of loved ones and understanding.

Additionally, the plant improves brain function, accelerates metabolic processes, increases blood pressure and regulates the menstrual cycle, and is also used for. Hyssop also shows beneficial properties in its effect on the digestive system. Use of the herb for colic, bloating, inflammatory processes of the gastrointestinal tract, ulcers. Its use helps cope with infections and colds. The plant is used for coughs, rheumatism, bronchitis, anemia, and eliminates symptoms of asthma.

What does hyssop help with?

The beneficial properties of the plant were discovered several centuries ago. The use of hyssop in folk medicine helps eliminate diseases of the lungs, bronchi, sore throat, helps in the treatment of asthma, the herb is used to completely eliminate it.

Diseases that hyssop helps eliminate:

  • rheumatism;
  • conjunctivitis;
  • increased sweating;
  • worms;
  • poor appetite;
  • digestive problems;
  • bronchitis;
  • asthma;
  • disruptions in the immune system;
  • constipation;
  • upper respiratory tract infections;
  • hematomas and wounds.

Since ancient times, the use of the herb has been effective as a general strengthening drug. The properties of the plant are beneficial and effective after illnesses, injuries, and operations. When providing the patient with decent care, one should not forget about strengthening the body from the inside - hyssop will help cope with this state of affairs.

Often the herb is used in medicine in the form of tinctures, decoctions and teas. Decoctions are effective against bronchial asthma, bronchitis, and pneumonia. Tinctures – for gastrointestinal diseases, bloating. Before direct use, it is advisable to consult a doctor, as the plant can cause irreparable harm.

The tincture is used for gargling, inflammation of the mucous membranes, stomatitis, and for washing the eyes. Additionally, it improves appetite and gives vigor. Tea and hyssop have beneficial properties when used during sore throat, colds and cough syndrome. The use of the medicine must be correct, and then, in addition to using the plant, it is worth providing the patient with care, ensuring bed rest and healthy sleep.

Contraindications and possible harm of the herb

The herb is mildly poisonous, so its use should be carried out with careful caution. Before starting treatment with decoctions, tinctures and teas from this plant, you should go to the doctor and choose the right dosage, undergo a series of tests that will show whether or not you can drink the plant in your case, otherwise you can harm the body.

Hyssop contraindications are characterized by long-term use in large doses. In some cases, this causes the development of spasms, so for people suffering from epilepsy, this plant will only bring harm. If there are kidney diseases, hypertension, increased stomach acidity, contraindications come into force. It is important to follow the criteria for using drugs to avoid side effects. Additional contraindications are:

  • children under 12 years of age;
  • lactation period, since the herb contains components that contribute to a decrease in lactation and the disappearance of milk in the future;
  • pregnancy. Using the herb during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage, so drinking hyssop decoctions or teas is strictly prohibited.

Before using any prescription, you should first consult with your doctor, who will help prescribe adequate treatment.