Hyssop is a woody, upright, evergreen perennial in the mint family that
naturally occurs in the Middle East and southern Europe. Because the
plant produces attractive lavender blooms and is heat and
drought-resistant, it is a popular garden ornamental and border plant.
For centuries, hyssop has been used for protection and purification. Due
to its association with the hyssop vinegar given to Jesus during the
Crucifixion and its role in spiritual purgation, hyssop is commonly
called holy herb.
Hyssop is not used as much for culinary purposes as it once was, but the
herb is still used to flavor beverages and spirits, including the French
liqueur Chartreuse. Thujone, the same agent responsible for the plant’s
minty flavor and aromatic profile, also lends antiseptic properties to
topical preparations made from this herb.
