Importance of a Botanical Name

The botanical name on a bottle of essential oil can tell you important features; along with the specific genus and species, it also conveys the chemical components, uses, and precautions.

Let’s take a look at a Hyssop essential oil and the variations.

Hyssop

There are two variations of this essential oil Hyssopus officinalis and Hyssopus officinalis var. decumbens. In the case of these variations, it is recommended to choose Hyssopus officinalis var. decumbens.

Because of its high level of pinocamphene Hyssopus officinalis, there are more extreme precautions to be aware of. PRECAUTIONS: It contains a neurotoxin, AVOID in cases of epilepsy, high blood pressure, during pregnancy and nursing, with children under 5, and avoid internal use.

Hyssopus officinalis var. decumbens has no known hazards or contraindications.

Hyssopus officinalis var. decumbens beneficial properties include antibacterial; anti-inflammatory; antimicrobial, antiseptic; antispasmodic; antiviral; cicatrisant; digestive; diuretic; emmenagogue; expectorant; febrifuge; hypertensive; nervine; sudorific; vermifuge; and vulnerary.

USES:

Circulation: normalizing effect on circulation and assists in raising low blood pressure.

Digestive: tones digestive system; aids digestion; relieves stomach cramps; and mild laxative.

Immune: stimulates the immune system.

Mental/Emotional/Nervous: strengthens nervous system; reduces stress; counters anxiety; and assists concentration.

Reproductive: reduces cramps and spasms in the uterus; encourages and regulates the menstrual flow.

Respiratory: clears mucus from sinus and lungs; combats pleurisy and pneumonia; bronchitis; asthma; coughs; colds; catarrh; sore throat; tonsillitis.

Skin: contracts and tones tissue; beneficial for bruises, cuts, dermatitis, eczema, and wound healing; and cold sores.

Urinary: increases flow of urine; and mild diuretic.

There are lots of possibilities to use Hyssopus officinalis var. decumbens in blending formulations. Here are some to get you started.

Respiratory Relief Nasal Inhaler

On the nasal inhaler felt wick include the following blend:

6 drops Hyssopus officinalis var. decumbens
5 drops Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)
5 drops Black Spruce (Picea mariana)

Inhale into each nostril 2-4 seconds as needed.

See other blends with Hyssopus officinalis var. decumbens

~ Much appreciation to Brandi Klee, our Professional Program student, for sharing her hyssop profile.~

References:

Hyssopus decumbens photo used with copyright permission from Lotus Garden Botanicals https://www.lgbotanicals.com/Hyssop-decumbens-Essential-Oil-_p_612.html;Permission granted April 20, 2021

Battaglia, Salvatore, The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy, third edition, Zilmere QLD, Australia, The Perfect Potion, 2018, p.340-343

Purchon, Nerys and Cantele, Lora, The Complete Aromatherapy and Essential Oils Handbook for Everyday Wellness, Robert Rose Publisher, 2014, p 65

Hyssop; https://www.aromaweb.com/essential-oils/hyssop-oil.asp; Retrieved April 17, 2021.

Hyssop;https://restorativemedicine.org/library/monographs/hyssop/; Retrieved April 17, 2021.

Stromkins, Jennine, The Autonomic Nervous System, and Aromatherapy: A Therapists Guide to Working With the Two Systems, International Essential Oil Corporation, 1998, p. 3-50