Traditional Indications

Hyssop is anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, carminative, diaphoretic, expectorant, emmenagogue, hepatic and nervine. Hyssop contains hesperedin a bioflavanoid that is a natural antihistamine. Hyssop has an interesting range of uses, which are largely attributable to the antispasmodic action of the volatile oil. It is used in coughs, bronchitis and chronic catarrh. Its diaphoretic properties explain its use in the common cold. As a nervine it may be used in anxiety states, hysteria and petit mal (a form of epilepsy formerly known as falling sickness). It is specific for asthma with an emotional component. (1)

Pharmacognosy

Hyssopus officinalis is a herb that grows in the wild and is a source of natural antioxidants. A study found that hyssop extract prevents hyperglycemia in sucrose- and maltose-loaded mice. (2)

Hyssop officinalis extract has been shown to inhibition of HIV replication. (3)

Hyssop possesses valuable antioxidant properties. Apigenin 7-O-β-D-glucuronide was isolated as the major flavonoids in hyssop. (4)
1. PFAF. Hyssopus officinalis. 2019.
2. Miyazaki H, Matsuura H, Yanagiya C, Mizutani J, Tsuji M, Ishihara C. Inhibitory effects of hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) extracts on intestinal alpha-glucosidase activity and postprandial hyperglycemia. Journal of nutritional science and vitaminology. 2003;49(5):346-9.
3. Kreis W, Kaplan MH, Freeman J, Sun DK, Sarin PS. Inhibition of HIV replication by Hyssop officinalis extracts. Antiviral Research. 1990;14(6):323-37.
4. Fathiazad F, Mazandarani M, Hamedeyazdan S. Phytochemical analysis and antioxidant activity of Hyssopus officinalis L. from Iran. Advanced pharmaceutical bulletin. 2011;1(2):63-7.