Anise Hyssop

Location

Anise hyssop, also known as licorice mint, blue giant hyssop, and lavender hyssop, is native to the north central and northeastern regions of North America (Peterson and McKenny 1968). It is known to grow in thickets across prairie and dry ground.

Description

Anise hyssop is a member of the mint family, Lamiaceae. The irregular flowers are usually blue-violet and are clustered in axils of bracts along square stems in interrupted spikes. Each flower contains two pairs of protruding stamens; one pair is downward curving while the other curves upward. Its leaves have white-downy undersides and give off an aroma similar to that of anise. Anise hyssop is fairly large for a mint, growing to heights of two to four feet. Blooming occurs from June through September (Peterson and McKenny 1968).

History

Although the recorded history of anise hyssop is sparse, there are some accounts of medicinal use by Native Americans. For example, an infusion of anise hyssop and elk mint is a traditional remedy for colds and chest pain used by the Chippewa (Moerman 1991). Anise hyssop contains many different essential oils that may contribute to its usefulness for Native American tribes. At least one of these oils, methyleugenol, is thought to have sedative properties (Winkelman 1986).

Current medicinal uses

Anise hyssop has no current medicinal uses.

Current culinary uses

Anise hyssop has culinary uses, which is common among members of the mint family.  Fresh leaves can be used in fruit salads and dried leaves can be brewed into tea. Additionally, its licorice-tasting flowers are used as seasonings (Facciola 1998).

Adverse effects

None reported.