Herb of the Month: Anise (Hyssop)

Not everyone is a fan of anise because of the black licorice taste and smell, but I love it, as well as the neighborhood bees. This herb is so easy to grow. Maybe too easy. Anise can practically grow on it’s own once planted, and anise has been known to invade my garden. After that first full bloom, the seeds of the anise plant can drift EVERYWHERE! I had little anise plants popping up all over the garden. A bad thing? Maybe. Maybe not, but it can get out of control.

Health Benefits

One major aspect of herbs that I have come to learn is having similar health benefits. Maybe it is because of the types of herbs that I grow in the garden, or maybe it is because most herbs go back to the same family. But, anise hyssop is one of those medicinal herb that goes back centuries to help treat digestive problems, liver problems, colds and cold symptoms, cramps, and so much more.

Uses

Outside of medicinal uses, I personally use anise in tea. Either dry or fresh leaves, anise is great to steep in tea. Such a great flavor… again, that is if you enjoy the taste of licorice. And it is a shame if you do not, because it is good for what ails you.

The flowers are edible. So trying using the flowers or leaves in your next salad. I one culinary use I found interesting is using anise to make a jam. I saw this recipe for Peach and Anise Hyssop Jam, which I may try the next time I have peaches in season. I grow both in my garden, so why not try something new?

Did you know…

There is a difference between anise and anise hyssop. Although they share similar taste and smell, anise belongs to the parsley family, while anise hyssop is in the mint family. If you decide to grow anise, keep in mind that anise is an annual, while anise hyssop is a perennial. Check out more fun facts at Grow Herb Garden.