Hyssop is an evergreen, bushy perennial native to southern Europe. A member of the mint family, Hyssopus officinalis can be used sparingly as a spice or macerated as a unique flavor to liqueurs. The plant has a long history of folklore in ancient Europe and was often hung in homes for protection. Hyssop herb is also typically made into a syrup or steeped and enjoyed as an infusion of hyssop tea.
"Purge me with hyssop," the Bible records, "and I will be clean." Hyssop has been used for millennia as a holy herb, consecrated for cleaning holy places. Its name comes from the Hebrew word adobe or ezob, which literally means "holy herb".