The Temperate Database is in the process of being updated, with new records being added and old ones being checked and brought up to date where necessary. This record has not yet been checked and updated.

Common Name: Hedge Hyssop

General Information

Gratiola officinalis is a perennial plant that can grow up to 0.40 metres tall.
It is harvested from the wild for local use as a medicine..

Known Hazards

All parts of the plant are poisonous[, , ].

Botanical References

,

Range

Central and southern Europe.

Habitat

Wet grassland, fens, river banks, ditches etc[, ].

Properties

Medicinal Rating
Habit	Perennial
Height	0.40 m
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Prefers a rich moist alkaline soil in full sun[, , ]. Succeeds in pond margins[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

Hedge hyssop was once widely used as a medicinal herb but it is now considered to be obsolete because of its toxicity[]. The root and the flowering herb are cardiac, diuretic, violently purgative and vermifuge[, , ]. The plant has been used in the treatment of liver problems, enlargement of the spleen, dropsy, jaundice, intestinal worms etc[, ]. The plant is harvested whilst in flower in the summer and dried for later use[, ]. Use with caution, in excess the plant causes abortion, kidney damage and bowel haemorrhage[]. See also the notes above on toxicity.
A homeopathic remedy is made from the flowering plant[]. It is used in the treatment of cystitis, colic and certain stomach disorders[].

Other Uses

None known

Propagation

Seed - sow spring in a cold frame. Prick out the seedlings when they are large enough to handle and plant them out in the summer.
Division in spring[]. Larger clumps can be replanted direct into their permanent positions, though it is best to pot up smaller clumps and grow them on in a cold frame until they are rooting well. Plant them out in the spring.