What Is the Difference Between Anise Hyssop and Hyssop?


Anise hyssop in flower

In spite of their similar names, anise hyssop (Agastache foeniculum) and hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) are very different plants, with unique culinary and medicinal characteristics and uses. What do anise hyssop and hyssop taste like? Anise hyssop has a licorice flavor reminiscent of star anise or licorice, while common hyssop tastes like mint mixed with something earthier, like sage or oregano.  Both are edible, although there may be medical cautions for some people. 

The Greek word, hyssopos (hyssop), may have come to us from ezob,  the Hebrew word for holy or holy herb. It is referenced in the Bible for its cleansing and purification properties. (Psalm 51:7).

Anise hyssop is a North American native with a history of culinary and medicinal applications among some American Indian cultures. Common garden hyssop, on the other hand, is native to Southern Europe and Central Asia. Its medicinal history is equally rich, but does not always dovetail with that of anise hyssop. 

Garden hyssop is the more well-known and researched plant because it has a longer documented history of use as a seasoning, for it's curative qualities, and as a flavoring in alcoholic beverages.  In fact, it may have been introduced to central Europe as early as the 10th century.

Differences Between Anise Hyssop and Hyssop - Plant Profiles

If you're interested in growing or using one or both of these plants, start with these two at-a-glance profiles:


Agastache foeniculum

Anise Hyssop

  • Botanical name: (Agastache foeniculum)
  • Life Cycle: Perennial
  • Hardiness Zones: 3-9
  • Sowing: Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before last frost or direct sow after frost danger has passed.
  • Days to Germination: 10 to 14 days
  • Soil Requirements: Well-drained, sandy loam
  • Moisture and Humidity: Moderate moisture, tolerates drought well once established. Prefers average humidity.
  • Light Requirements: Full sun for best flowering.
  • Spacing: 18 to 24 inches apart
  • Days to Maturity: 60 to 70 days
  • Height at Maturity: 2 to 4 feet
  • Pests and Diseases: Generally pest and disease resistant.
  • Uses and Benefits
  • Culinary: Leaves and flowers are edible with a licorice-mint flavor. Great for teas.
  • Medicinal: Limited medicinal use, but some studies suggest potential benefits for coughs and respiratory issues. Always consult a medical professional before using herbs medicinally.
  • Ornamental: Beautiful flower spikes attract pollinators like butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds.
  • History: Native to North America. Used by some indigenous tribes for medicinal purposes.
  • Propagation: Seed, division
  • Common Names: Giant hyssop, lavender hyssop, licorice mint
  • Seed Longevity: 2 to 3 years
  • Nutritional Value: Not a significant source of nutrients.
  • Companion Planting: Catmint, lavender, other herbs
Hyssopus officinalis)

 Hyssop

  • Botanical name: Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis)
  • Life Cycle: Perennial
  • Hardiness Zones: 4-8
  • Sowing: Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before last frost or direct sow in early summer.
  • Days to Germination: 10 to 14 days
  • Soil Requirements: Well-drained, sandy loam
  • Moisture and Humidity: Moderate moisture, tolerates drought well once established. Prefers average humidity.
  • Light Requirements: Full sun for best growth.
  • Spacing: 12 to 18 inches apart
  • Days to Maturity: 70 to 80 days
  • Height at Maturity: 1 to 2 feet
  • Pests and Diseases: Few pest or disease problems.
  • Uses and Benefits
  • Culinary: Leaves and flowers are used as a seasoning with a minty, slightly bitter flavor. Works well in poultry, stews, and soups.
  • Medicinal: Traditionally used for coughs, colds, and sore throats. (Disclaimer: Always consult a medical professional before using herbs medicinally)
  • History: Native to the Mediterranean region. Used medicinally for centuries in Europe and Asia.
  • Propagation: Seed, cuttings
  • Common Names: Garden hyssop, common hyssop
  • Seed Longevity: 2 to 3 years
  • Nutritional Value: Not a significant source of nutrients.
  • Companion Planting: Oregano, thyme

What are the key differences between anise hyssop and hyssop? Let's take a closer look.

Medicinal Differences Between Anise Hyssop and Hyssop

Interest in natural remedies grows, understanding the potential of herbs like hyssop helps create a more informed approach to healthcare.  Hyssop has a longer recorded history of medicinal use, so may be somewhat better understood by the medical researchers, and contemporary herbal practitioners than anise hyssop. That said, here are some insights about what we know regarding the medicinal differences between anise hissop and hyssop as well some comments about the research into each.

Anise Hyssop (Agastache foeniculum)

North American Indian tribes like the Cheyenne are believed to have used anise hyssop externally to help heal burns, and internally to treat respiratory ailments. 

Again, research on the medicinal properties of Anise Hyssop (Agastache foeniculum) is limited compared to common hyssop. However, some studies have explored its potential benefits:

Antimicrobial Activity
A study published in the Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science investigated the essential oil of anise hyssop. The research showed the oil had moderate inhibitory effects against various bacteria and fungi, including Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans.

Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science, 7(3), 182-187

Antioxidant Properties
The same study mentioned above also found anise hyssop essential shows a strong antioxidant capacity. Antioxidants help combat free radicals in the body, potentially reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.

Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science, 7(3), 182-187

Antiviral Activity
Somewhat older research suggests potential antiviral properties against Herpes simplex virus (HSV) types 1 and 2, but further investigation is needed. [1]

Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis)

Historically, hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) has been used to soothe sore throat, clear chest congestion, treat digestive issues and speed the healing of bruises and wounds. Modern research is still exploring the potential benefits of this herb, but it may aid in treating:
  • Asthma
  • Poor circulation
  • Cough
  • Intestinal infections
  • Upset stomach
  • Gallbladder issues
  • Poor appetite
  • Urinary tract infections (UTI)
  • Menstrual cramps
Consuming large quantities of hyssop may have negative side effects, some of them serious. They include:
  • Anxiety
  • Allergic reactions
  • Stomach discomfort
  • Tremors
  • Seizures
  • Miscarriage
Respiratory Conditions
Some studies suggest hyssop may help soothe coughs, bronchitis, and upper respiratory infections. However, the evidence is limited and often based on traditional practices, not extensive clinical trials. [2]

Antimicrobial Activity
Hyssop extracts have shown some effectiveness against certain bacteria and fungi in laboratory studies. More research is needed to determine if this translates to real-world benefits. [3]

Anti-inflammatory Properties
Preliminary research suggests hyssop may possess anti-inflammatory properties, potentially beneficial for conditions like arthritis. Supporting human studies haven't been performed yet. Inflammation plays a role in a number of chronic diseases. Studying hyssop's anti-inflammatory properties could lead to new therapeutic options. [2]

Cancer Fighting Properties
A 2014 review found that herbs in the Lamiaceae family, including hyssop, may have the ability to destroy cancer cells. [4] 

Also, a 2017 study concluded that hyssop oils and extracts have the ability to to kill cervical cancer cells. [5]

Research on hyssop suggests potential benefits for respiratory health, antimicrobial activity, and potentially anti-inflammatory properties. More research is necessary though.

Important: Research on Anise Hyssop is limited, and more studies are necessary to confirm its potential benefits and establish safe dosages. Consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedy, including hyssop. They can help you understand potential interactions with medications and ensure safety.

Culinary Differences Between Anise Hyssop and Hyssop

Anise hyssop and hyssop have distinct flavor profiles that affect how they are used in different dishes. Anise hyssop boasts a unique combination of licorice and mint flavors. The licorice leads, with a subtle but important mint undertone. Common hyssop offers a classic minty taste, that's more assertive than , but less aggressive than peppermint.

The Difference Between Anise Hyssop and Hyssop in Meat Dishes

Anise Hyssop:  Due to the strong licorice flavor, anise hyssop can overpower delicate meats but it will work well with strongly flavored meats like lamb, venison or duck.  The licorice adds a unique savory note. Use it as a finishing touch, sprinkled over the dish just before serving. (A little goes a long way.)

Garden Hyssop: A more versatile choice for meat dishes, it pairs well with chicken, lamb, pork, and beef.  Add chopped common hyssop during cooking to infuse the meat with a subtle minty flavor. It is a popular addition to lamb recipes.

The Difference Between Anise Hyssop and Hyssop in Salads

Anise Hyssop: Although it can overpower a simple vegetable salad, anise hyssop  might work well with salads featuring fruits with strong flavors like watermelon, cantaloupe, or citrus.  Use it finely chopped and distribute it evenly. 

Garden Hyssop: A classic choice for salads.  Chopped common hyssop brings a refreshing minty note that complements a variety of salad ingredients – cucumber, tomato, berries, and even feta cheese. 

The Difference Between Anise Hyssop and Hyssop in Beverages

Anise Hyssop: Makes a unique and potentially calming tea.  The licorice flavor can be enjoyed on its own or with honey for a touch of sweetness.  Anise hyssop can also be added to cocktails for a subtle licorice twist.

Garden Hyssop: A classic choice for herbal teas.  The minty flavor is refreshing and calming, perfect for a soothing drink.  Common hyssop can also be muddled in summer coolers or infused in water for a refreshing lift.   

The Difference Between Anise Hyssop and Hyssop in Desserts

Anise Hyssop: A bold choice for desserts.  The licorice flavor can work well with specific desserts that feature strong flavors like chocolate, ginger, or fennel.  Consider using finely chopped anise hyssop as a garnish or sprinkled on top of ice cream or yogurt.

Garden Hyssop: Not usually an ingredient in desserts.


When experimenting with an herb, consider the overall flavor profile of the dish you want to create.  Both anise hyssop and hyssop can add exciting dimensions to your recipes. If you create something delicious with anise hyssop or hyssop, please come back and share.



For more information about hyssop, please visit:



References

1. Koch, H. P., Reichling, J., Schneele, J., & Schnitzler, P. (2008). Inhibitory effect of essential oils against herpes simplex virus type 2. Phytomedicine, 15(6-7), 511-516.

2. Edzards, F., Mohammed, S., & Al-Khalifa, K. (2017). Hyssopus officinalis L. (Hyssop): A Review of Its Phytochemistry, Pharmacology and Applications. Current Pharmaceutical Design, 23(1), 105-112

3. Hajimehdipoor, M., Khoshkhui, M., Amin, G., & Ahmadvand, M. (2010). Antimicrobial properties of Hyssopus officinalis L. essential oil against some food-borne bacteria. African Journal of Biotechnology, 9(32), 5088-5093

4. Zielinska S, Matkowski A. Phytochemistry and bioactivity of aromatic and medicinal plants from the genus Agastache (Lamiaceae). Phytochemistry Reviews. 2014;13:391-416. doi:10.1007%2Fs11101-014-9349-1

5. Mićović T, Topalović D, Živković L, et al. Antioxidant, antigenotoxic and cytotoxic activity of essential oils and methanol extracts of hyssopus officinalis l. Subsp. Aristatus (Godr.) nyman(Lamiaceae). Plants. 2021;10(4):711. doi:10.3390/plants10040711

Photo Credits:

Photo 2 - Guettarda, https://commons.m.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Agastache_foeniculum.jpg
Photo 3 - H. Zel, https://commons.m.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hyssopus_officinalis_004.JPG#mw-jump-to-license

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