The Wonderful World of Anise Hyssop

Are you looking for a versatile and flavorful herb to add to your garden or spice rack? Look no further than anise hyssop! This hardy perennial plant has been used for centuries in culinary, medicinal, and cosmetic applications. In this article, we'll explore the history, uses, cultivation, and benefits of anise hyssop.

What is Anise Hyssop?

Anise hyssop (Agastache foeniculum) is a member of the mint family native to North America. It is also known as licorice mint, blue giant hyssop, or lavender hyssop. The plant grows up to 4 feet tall with spiky purple flowers and fragrant leaves that smell like licorice or anise. Anise hyssop is often confused with true hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis), which is a different species with similar-looking leaves but a more bitter taste.

History and Folklore

Anise hyssop has a long history of use by Native American tribes for both medicinal and ceremonial purposes. The Ojibwe people called it "kawisaxi" and used it to treat coughs, colds, fevers, and digestive problems. They also burned the dried leaves as incense during rituals. Other tribes used anise hyssop as a spice and flavoring for teas, soups, and stews.

When European settlers arrived in North America, they adopted anise hyssop into their own herbal traditions. The plant was included in early American pharmacopoeias as a carminative, expectorant, and sedative. It was also used in digestive tonics, cough syrups, and tooth powders. Anise hyssop's popularity waned in the 20th century as synthetic drugs became more prevalent, but it has seen a resurgence in recent years as people rediscover its natural benefits.

Culinary Uses

Anise hyssop is a versatile herb that can be used fresh or dried in sweet or savory dishes. The leaves and flowers have a subtle licorice flavor that pairs well with fruits, berries, honey, and chocolate. Here are some ideas for using anise hyssop in your kitchen:

Beverages

- Add fresh or dried anise hyssop leaves to hot or iced tea for a soothing and aromatic drink.
- Infuse vodka, gin, or simple syrup with anise hyssop for a unique cocktail ingredient.
- Make a refreshing lemonade or limeade with anise hyssop syrup and sparkling water.

Desserts

- Sprinkle chopped anise hyssop leaves over fresh fruit or ice cream for a flavorful garnish.
- Bake anise hyssop into cakes, cookies, or muffins for a subtle twist on classic recipes.
- Mix anise hyssop with sugar and butter to make a fragrant spread for toast or scones.

Savory Dishes

- Use anise hyssop as a seasoning for meats, fish, or vegetables, especially in Mediterranean or Middle Eastern cuisine.
- Toss anise hyssop leaves into salads, soups, or stir-fries for a burst of flavor.
- Make a pesto or chimichurri sauce with anise hyssop instead of basil or parsley.

Medicinal Uses

Anise hyssop contains several compounds with potential health benefits, including flavonoids, tannins, and essential oils. Some traditional and modern uses of anise hyssop as a medicinal herb include:

Respiratory Health

- Anise hyssop has expectorant and antitussive properties that can help relieve coughs, bronchitis, and asthma.
- The plant's volatile oils may act as a decongestant and antimicrobial agent in the respiratory tract.

Digestive Health

- Anise hyssop is a carminative herb, meaning it can help relieve gas, bloating, and indigestion.
- The plant's bitter principles may stimulate digestive secretions and improve appetite.

Circulatory Health

- Anise hyssop has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that may protect against cardiovascular disease.
- The plant's flavonoids and phenolic acids may reduce cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and arterial stiffness.

Mental Health

- Anise hyssop has mild sedative and anxiolytic effects that can promote relaxation and sleep.
- The plant's aroma may have mood-enhancing and stress-reducing properties.

Cultivation Tips

Anise hyssop is a hardy perennial that thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant once established but prefers regular watering during dry spells. The plant can be propagated by seed or division in spring or fall. Here are some tips for growing anise hyssop:

Planting

- Choose a site with at least 6 hours of sunlight per day and good air circulation.
- Prepare the soil by adding compost or organic matter and loosening any compacted areas.
- Sow seed in early spring indoors or outdoors, or transplant seedlings or divisions in fall.
- Space plants 12 to 18 inches apart and water thoroughly after planting.

Care

- Water anise hyssop regularly but avoid overwatering or allowing the soil to become waterlogged.
- Fertilize lightly with a balanced fertilizer or compost once or twice a year.
- Prune back the plant by one-third to one-half in midsummer to promote bushier growth and prevent flopping.
- Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming and prevent self-seeding.

Harvesting

- Harvest anise hyssop leaves and flowers before they fade or turn brown for the best flavor and aroma.
- Cut stems in the morning after dew has dried but before the sun is too hot.
- Dry the leaves and flowers in a warm, well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight.
- Store the dried herb in an airtight container in a cool, dry, dark place for up to a year.

Benefits of Anise Hyssop

Anise hyssop is a valuable addition to any garden or herbal collection due to its many benefits, including:

Ecological Benefits

- Anise hyssop attracts pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its fragrant flowers and nectar-rich blooms.
- The plant's seeds provide food for birds and small mammals.
- Anise hyssop is resistant to deer and rabbit browsing, making it a good choice for wildlife gardens.

Culinary Benefits

- Anise hyssop adds a unique flavor and fragrance to a variety of dishes, both sweet and savory.
- The plant is easy to grow and harvest, making it a convenient herb to have on hand.
- Anise hyssop is low in calories and high in antioxidants and other beneficial compounds.

Medicinal Benefits

- Anise hyssop has a long history of use as a medicinal herb for respiratory, digestive, circulatory, and mental health issues.
- The plant's essential oils and other constituents have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects.
- Anise hyssop is generally safe for most people when used in moderation and according to recommended dosages.

FAQs

1. Is anise hyssop the same as anise?

No, anise hyssop is not the same as anise (Pimpinella anisum), although they both have a licorice flavor. Anise is a different plant species that is more commonly used as a spice or flavoring in cooking and candy-making.

2. Can anise hyssop be used in tea?

Yes, anise hyssop leaves and flowers can be used to make tea either alone or in combination with other herbs. Anise hyssop tea has a mild, soothing flavor and can help relieve respiratory and digestive symptoms.

3. How do you dry anise hyssop?

To dry anise hyssop, harvest the leaves and flowers in the morning after dew has dried but before the sun is too hot. Spread them out in a single layer on a clean, dry surface such as a screen or paper towel. Let them air dry in a warm, well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight for several days until they are crispy and brittle. Store the dried herb in an airtight container in a cool, dry, dark place for up to a year.

4. Can anise hyssop be used for aromatherapy?

Yes, anise hyssop essential oil or dried leaves can be used for aromatherapy to promote relaxation, calmness, and mental clarity. The plant's aroma is said to have uplifting and stress-reducing effects.

5. What are some recipes that use anise hyssop?

Some recipes that use anise hyssop include:
- Blueberry-Anise Hyssop Jam
- Grilled Lamb Chops with Anise Hyssop Chimichurri
- Lemon-Anise Hyssop Shortbread Cookies
- Peach-Anise Hyssop Sorbet
- Roasted Carrots with Anise Hyssop Gremolata


Anise hyssop is a versatile and beneficial herb that deserves a place in every home and garden. Whether you use it to flavor your food, soothe your cough, or uplift your mood, anise hyssop is sure to delight your senses and improve your well-being. With its rich history, diverse uses, and easy cultivation, anise hyssop is a true gem of the herbal world.