Papaya - a world class meat tenderizer, natural digestive aid, prevents ulcers, and also a soft contact lense cleaner.Hyssop The Safety Factor
Hyssop has not been shown to stimulate the uterus, but its traditional use to stimulate abortion should discourage pregnant women from using it. No reports of harm from hyssop appear in world medical literature.
Just make sure the “hyssop” you use is H. Officinalis.
Several other North American plants are also called hyssop: hedge hyssop (Gratiola officinalis), the giant hyssops (several species of the genus Agastache), and the water hyssops (several species of Bacopa). These plants should not be ingested.
Other Cautions
Hyssop is included in the Food and Drug Administration’s list of herbs generally regarded as safe. For otherwise healthy non-pregnant, non-nursing adults, hyssop is considered safe in amounts typically recommended.
Hyssop should be used in medicinal amounts only in consultation with your doctor. If hyssop causes minor discomforts, such as stomach upset or diarrhea, use less or stop using it. Let your doctor know if you experience any unpleasant effects or if the symptoms for which the herb is being used do not improve significantly in two weeks.
Magnet for Bees
If you want bees in your garden, plant this pretty, hardy, shrubby perennial. Hyssop also has a reputation for enhancing the flavor of grapes and increasing the yield of cabbages planted nearby.
Hyssop has small. lance-shaped leaves, and the mints’ characteristic square stems. The plant reaches 2 feet and has a medicinal odor, which becomes more mintlike when the leaves are crushed. Dense clusters of blue or violet flowers form on c-inch spikes atop the stems in summer and early fall.
Hyssop enjoys dry, sunny locations and tolerates most soils. In partial shade, it tends to become leggy. Hyssop may be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or root divisions. Seeds should be sown 1/4 inch deep after danger of frost has passed. Cuttings and divisions may be rooted either indoors or outdoors in a cool, shady place.
Thin established plants to 12-inch spacing. Add compost each spring. Water seedlings every few days. Mature plants prefer a drier environment and require little care.
Once the plant reaches about 18 inches and exudes its characteristic aroma, cut back the tops to stimulate leaf growth. Leaves may be harvested at any time. Cut back the entire plant to 4 inches above ground just before it flowers. Dry and store in airtight containers.