Magical and Medicinal Uses of Hyssop

Gender: Masculine

Planet: Jupiter
Element: Fire
Powers: Necromancy, Protection, Purification

Magical Uses and History: Hyssop is one of just over 100 plants mentioned specifically in the Bible, where it was used for cleansing and purification. In Psalm 51.7, hyssop is mentioned as a cleansing herb: "Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow." In other passages, it is specifically mentioned in purification and protection rituals for the home and body, including sanctifying Jesus's burial site. Exodus 12:22 states: "Take a bunch of hyssop, dip it into the blood in the basin and put some of the blood on the top and on both sides of the doorframe. None of you shall go out of the door of your house until morning." A similar charm appears in Leviticus 14:49: "To purify the house he is to take two birds and some cedar wood, scarlet yarn and hyssop." Based on these passages, it should come as no surprise, then, that the name hyssop is derived from the Greek hyssopos and Hebrew azob, meaning "holy herb." However, scholars suggest that the hyssop mentioned in the Bible is not our modern hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) but instead Syrian oregano (Origanum syriacum) or another herb with a distinct scent. Despite this, modern occult practices treat modern hyssop as if it were the biblical plant. As such, hyssop is most often used in rituals, spells, and rites for cleansing and purification, particularly those related to "sin," guilt, or unwanted negativity. It is also an effective cleanser for after you have been harmed by another, whether it be physically or verbally. Add to ritual cleansing baths or floor washes, drink as a tea, or use to asperge your dwelling. Hang above doors and windows or carry on your person to protect yourself and those within your home.

Outside of the Bible, there is little folklore regarding hyssop. Some sources mention that hyssop protects against the evil eye and witches, but this likely stems from biblical passages. The most compelling folklore, however, comes from the Book of Raziel from the Middle Ages. In this book, medieval magicians suggest hyssop can be used in necromancy to help compel the dead to talk. Blessed water was sprinkled over the burial site of the deceased using a spring of hyssop while calling upon the dead to rise and speak. Again, however, this association with the dead likely comes back to biblical passages where hyssop is used in funeral rites to purify the dead (Numbers 19) and was even present at the crucifixion of Jesus (John 19:29). As such, hyssop can be used in spells, rituals, and rites for spirit communication and to aid in bridging the physical and spiritual realms, particuallary those associated with contacting your ancestors. Use hyssop to adorn altars and gravesites, burn to aid in spirit communication, or roll candles in dried hyssop for similar purposes.

Medicinal Uses: Hyssop has a large range of uses due to the antispasmodic action of its volatile oil. It is warming and helps stimulate the movement of fluids, particularly mucus. It is most commonly used as an expectorant to treat coughs, bronchitis, chronic catarrh, and other respiratory ailments. Hyssop is also a diaphoretic, making it an effective remedy for treating colds. As a nervine, it is used to treat anxiety and petit mal, a form of epilepsy. Hyssop combines well with coltsfoot for coughs and elderberry and boneset for colds, but should not be taken by those who are pregnant. In high doses, hyssop can cause seizures.

Preparation and Dosage: To make an infusion, combine one cup of boiling water with 1-2 teaspoons of dried flowers. Allow to infuse for 10-15 minutes. Drink up to three times a day. As a tincture, take 1-4 milliliters up to three times a day. As an oxymel, take 1-2 teaspoons every hour until symptoms subside, but no more than a couple of days.

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