Wednesday, April 09, 2014

A to Z Blogging Challenge - H is for Hyssop

H is for Hyssop
Hyssopus officinalis

Hyssop was used as an expectorant and cough suppressant, and its tea was to help with rheumatism.   It's camphor-like flavor can also be found in mouthwash.  (Some sources caution should be used in taking it internally as too much can cause problems with the central nervous system.) 
It is also known as a "Holy Herb" and mentioned several times in the Bible (Hebrews 9:19, Exodus 12:22, Psalm 51:7)  as a spiritual purifying agent.  Using a handful in your bath can supposedly take off a jinx and get rid of bad habits.

All that aside, with its pretty flowers, plant hyssop in your garden to attract honey bees, hummingbirds and butterflies!  

1 comment:

stillblooming said...

I love this! It's so light feeling, and water color painting is exactly that!