Hyssop’s roots go back to biblical times

The bushy, lavender-flowered hyssop has a long history of use in medicine. It’s mentioned many times in the Bible as a cleansing agent; Hippocrates used it to treat bronchitis; the Cheyenne prescribed it for colds and weakness; and modern herbalists recommend it for a litany of conditions. Other Native Americans -- including the Omaha and Dakota -- have used hyssop to make a sweet tea-like drink and to flavor foods.

*

Uses: Hyssop is sometimes touted as an ideal wintertime healer, recommended for coughs, colds, flu and even frostbite. Herbalists also use it to treat bruises, burns, arthritis, upset stomach, poor circulation, and infection with lice and HIV.

Dose: Brew a couple of teaspoons of dried herb per cup of water to make a tea. Hyssop is also sold in capsule form and as a liquid extract or essential oil. Doses vary widely.

Precautions: Several people have suffered seizures after taking hyssop’s essential oil, and animal studies show that high doses (equivalent to 10 drops a day or more in humans) can cause convulsions. Because of this risk, the herb is not recommended for pregnant women.

Research: Hyssop extracts killed bacteria -- including E. coli -- in lab studies. The oil was also effective against viruses, including HIV, in vitro, but these properties have yet to be demonstrated in humans.

Dietary supplement makers are not required by the U.S. government to demonstrate that their products are safe or effective. Ask your healthcare provider for advice on selecting a brand.

*

-- Elena Conis