Hyssop

Hyssopus officinalis

Hyssop essential oil

Hyssop essential oil (Hyssopus officinalis) is characterised by high concentrations of pinocamphone and isopinocamphone (ketones, up to 50% combined), alongside beta-pinene and pinocarvone. The pinocamphone content accounts for its mucolytic and expectorant use in respiratory conditions, though these ketones are also neurotoxic at high doses and contraindicated in epilepsy and pregnancy.[1] Antiviral activity against HSV-1 has been reported for hyssop extracts.[2]

Also Known As
Garden Hyssop
Family
Herbal
Perfumery Note
Middle
Intensity
Medium
Extraction
Steam Distillation
Plant Parts
Flowering tops, Leaves
Origins
France, Hungary, Spain
Effect
Focus & Clarity, Respiratory & Cleansing
Aroma
Herbal, Camphorous, Sweet
Applications
Aromatherapy, Medicinal, Inhalation
Price
$$$$A sacred herb with a relatively low yield; contains powerful chemicals that require careful use
Blend

References

  1. [1]Hyssopus officinalis: chemical composition and biological activity — Kędzia A et al. Herba Polonica, 2003
  2. [2]Antiviral activity of an extract of Hyssopus officinalis — Kreis W et al. Antiviral Research, 1990