Onwards we go with our ventures into a specific group of essential oils — those associated with ancient scripture and gathered into a kit by Young Living of that name: The Twelve Oils of Ancient Scripture. (Put ‘scripture’ in the top right search box for more posts on this spiritually practical kit.)
Today, we’re looking at hyssop. No, it’s not the noise you make when you have the hiccups. (Though they sound so similar, it could be worth trying hyssop if you have a bout of them.)
This essential oil might be a new one to you, especially if you’re a fresh arrival to the world of essential oils. And yet it’s one with a long and legendary history.
Hyssop is derived from the Hebrew word ‘azob’ meaning ‘holy herb’, and has a long tradition of use for cleansing temples and other sacred places. It was also esteemed for purifying and cleansing both mind and soul, as can be interpreted from these mentions:
“And a clean person shall take hyssop, and dip it in the water, and sprinkle it upon the tent, and upon all the vessels, and upon the persons that were there, and upon him that touched a bone, or one slain, or one dead, or a grave.” Numbers 19:18
“Now there was a set a vessel full of vinegar: and they filled a sponge with vinegar, and put it upon hyssop, and put it to his mouth.” John 19:29
And then, we come to perhaps the most well-known reference and one with no ambiguity:
“Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.” Psalms 51:7
While there’s a recurring theme in the above mentions, historical uses of hyssop are not limited to cleansing mind, soul and body.
Traditionally, American Indians have used this herb for tired and weary muscles and supporting healthy circulation and elimination.
Hippocrates and Ayurvedic medicine may not be typical bedfellows, but they share a love of this herb for respiration-related matters.
Ayurvedic use of hyssop includes balancing the doshas by countering excess kapha along with pitta and vata deficit. And practitioners often recommend including it in an evening bath as a relaxant, which also helps promote peaceful sleep and mental clarity, relaxation of muscles and nerves.
Tip: when adding essential oils to bath water or for showering, put into some natural bath or shower gel to evenly disperse the oil and help it do its job.
A word of caution. Hyssop essential oil (Hyssopus officinalis) is not recommended for use if epileptic — which reminds me to remind you of the importance of having at least one (preferably more) excellent essential oil reference guide at your fingertips. And being sure to use it.
Not many oils have contraindications but all essential oils are highly potent and it’s common sense to have a quick check just in case. And always be sure to read the label and familiarise yourself with guidelines for safe use in general.
From these traditional uses, you can see how handy hyssop would be on a physical level, without factoring in the spiritual and ‘feelings’ side of things. So what are its aromatic influences on your psyche? Next time you’re meditating — or attempting to — apply a couple of drops to your chakras or inhale directly. And if you have a creative project begging for your attention, hyssop can help get those cylinders firing.
Enjoy the good oil daily.
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