Herb & Spice Companion

Job:07-61264 Title:RacePoint - Herb and Spice Companion

Dtp:VIVIAN Page:108

61264 - Herb and Spice Companion_001-145.indd 108 3/7/15 5:11 pm

(Text)

HERB & SPICE COMPANION

• 108 –

HYSSOP

Hyssopus officinalis

Flavors: minty, floral, bitter

Hyssop is a member of the mint family, like the similarly named anise hyssop (see page

88). But unlike its tall, sweet, distant cousin, this herb is a low-growing shrub with a

bitter-mint, herb flavor. Long spears

of blue, purple, pink, or white flowers

attract welcome visitors—hummingbirds,

butterflies, and bees—making this a

charming addition to an outdoor garden.

Best known since ancient times as

a medicinal and purifying herb, hyssop

sneaks under the radar in the kitchen—

but it shouldn’t, as its unique flavor adds

edge to everything from rich meats to

fruity desserts. Its leaves, shoots, and

flowers are all edible and also all pun-

gent in flavor, so use only in pinches or

teaspoons when cooking. Look for fresh

hyssop at Middle Eastern markets or at

online herb shops.

In the Garden

Hyssop, which is a perennial, can be grown in containers and window boxes; just

make sure the containers are a suitable size for the large roots.

Size: 2 to 3 feet tall

Container: 10 to 12 inches deep

Light: Full sun

HEALTH BENEFITS

Hyssop has been used medicinally

over the centuries in many ways,

including for digestion problems,

flatulence, and respiratory conditions

like cough, bronchitis, and asthma.

Taken as a tea, it’s been shown to

loosen mucus, help soothe a sore

throat, and calm upset stomach.

Hyssop is considered a purifying herb:

its leaves can be added to herbal

baths to stimulate sweating and clear

out toxins.

Job:07-61264 Title:RacePoint - Herb and Spice Companion

Dtp:VIVIAN Page:108

61264 - Herb and Spice Companion_001-145.indd 108 3/7/15 5:12 pm