Purple giant hyssop Agastache rugosa

Native to eastern Asia, including parts of India, China, and Japan, purple giant hyssop is also
known as Korean mint. It is one of two species that are known as huo xiang in Chinese medicine,
and which have been used for at least 1,500 years. Huo xiang is largely taken for digestive
problems associated with nausea, vomiting, and poor appetite.



FLOWERS
The dramatic purple to rose-violet flowers,which appear in summer, are much
loved by honey bees and a favorite with flower arrangers.

LEAVES
The serrated, heart shaped leaves smell of a mixture of spearmint and liquorice and can
be used to flavor meat recipes and sauces.



PARTS USED Aerial parts, essential oil MAIN CONSTITUENTS Volatile oil (incl.
methyl chavicol, anethole, anisaldehyde,limonene, pinene, linalool)
ACTIONS Antibacterial, anti-fungal febrifuge, carminative, diaphoretic,



INFUSION Drink 1 cup (1-2 tsp aerial parts per cup of boiling water) 1–2 times a
day for abdominal bloating and indigestion.
LOTION/OINTMENT Use 1 cup of infusion to bathe ringworm patches, or make into
an ointment and apply 2–3 times daily.Alternatively, add 10 drops of the essential
oil to 1 tbsp (15ml) of almond oil.
TINCTURE Take 10–40 drops in a little water to relieve nausea.

DECOCTION In traditional Chinese medicine it is combined in decoctions with such herbs
as huang qin (baikal skullcap, Scutellaria baicalensis) and lian qiao (forsythia fruits,
Forsythia suspensa) for acute diarrhea.

PATENT REMEDIES Included in various Chinese patent formulae, such as huo
xiang zheng qi san (powder for dispelling turbidity with giant hyssop) which is used
to clear “dampness.” Follow the dosage directions on the package.


HOW TO SOURCE

GROW Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with well-rotted organic matter in full sun. Can
be grown from seeds planted in 3in (7cm) pots and transplanted to their final growing
position when large enough to handle.

FORAGE Unlikely to be found growing wild beyond its native habitat, although
cultivated plants that then self-seed are possible. Collect leaves throughout the
growing season and use in any recipe that requires mint. They can also be infused
to make a refreshing tea.

HARVEST The aerial parts are gathered
in summer before flowering.


CAUTION In Chinese medicine it should be avoided in cases of fever.
Avoid therapeutic doses in pregnancy.