MEDICINAL PLANTS

The swab is a small shrub belonging to the family of Labiatae. It has a straight stem, woody, which can reach 30 to 60 cm. High. The leaves are lanceolate and cling to the stem by a short corner, in the axils of the upper leaves are odd whorls of blue flowers, tubular, with a strong camphor-like odor and a pleasant taste. It is a plant that thrives in dry hills of the central and Mediterranean region, although often used as a garden plant. Currently the plant is grown for medicinal purposes and that in itself is a scarce and rare plant to find.

FLOWERING

The flowering of the swab is held in summer, but may extend into the fall. The plant parts that interest from the therapeutic standpoint are the flowering tops and leaves, when they are tender and fresh. Both parties must be collected at the beginning of flowering and quickly dried in the shade outdoors, then keep both flowers and leaves in airtight jars. This plant regenerates quickly, so you can make 2 or 3 collections per year.

APPLICATIONS

The main component is the essence of hyssop, which is available at a rate of 1-2%, after drying the plant. It also has a bitter principle, phenolic acids, flavonoids and many other substances. The essence is very aromatic, but highly toxic if absorbed in large amount it is estimated that 2 gr. In essence a table can cause seizures, mental and sensory disorders. At low doses the substance behaves as a digestive, antiseptic, carminative and appetizer. Thanks to the presence of bitter principle has expectorant effect and phenolic acids show an antihypertensive effect. For all these virtues, is a plant that is indicated for colds, coughs, flu, asthma, poor appetite, slow digestion and heavy gases and hypertension. But it is important to remember that the essence must be handled with care, not only by the box which can cause intoxication but also because there is always the possibility that allergic reactions may occur. Also in moderate doses can act as an irritant of mucous membranes.

ADMINISTRATION

Tincture. Take 20 gr. Each of the following plants: hyssop, basil, peppermint and sage, put to macerate in 2,5 l. Alcohol of 60 grados Celsius . The alcoholic tincture tinctures or acts against nervousness, pains of all kinds and heavy digestions. It should take a teaspoon after meals. Essence
add 1 to 2 drops of the essence (it is very important not to exceed this dose) on a terroncillo of sugar, 3 times a day.
Infusion. Put 15 gr. Of the flowering tops, or simply of the leaves in 1 / 2 l. Boiling water, let stand for 20 minutes and strain the liquid. It may take 3 cups daily. It is recommended in the treatment of asthma and other respiratory condition.
Syrup. You can prepare a syrup with 5% of the plant, usually flowering tops. It takes large spoons to facilitate expectoration in bronchitis.

SUMMARY

FAMILY: Labiatae
HABITAT: Mediterranean
FLOWERING: Summer
PART USED: Leaf, sumidad florida
CATALAN: Hisop
BASQUE: Urdingorri

USES

Digestive Strong, Moderate hypotensive, Light Balsamic.