Hyssop isopinocamphone essential oil is obtained through steam distillation of the leaves from Hyssopus officinalis, a species in the Labiatae family.

Native to southern Europe, the Middle East, and the Caspian Sea shores, hyssop is valued both as an aromatic herb and for its medicinal properties, such as antitussive, expectorant, and antiseptic effects.

This herbaceous plant grows to a height of 30 to 60 cm. Its stem lignifies at the base, with numerous straight branches sprouting, hairy at the distal end.

Its leaves are opposite, entire, and linear to lanceolate, about 2 to 2.5 cm long. They are dark green, glandular, and sometimes pubescent on both sides.

During summer, hyssop produces dense terminal spikes of very fragrant blue flowers. These flowers later give rise to oblong achenes as fruits.

A hardy species, hyssop resists drought well and tolerates both clay-sandy and loamy or calcareous soils, provided there is good drainage. It requires full sunlight and warm temperatures.

Hyssop can be propagated by seed between mid-autumn and early spring. First, plant in seedlings, then transplant them about 70 x 60 cm apart. Alternatively, it can be propagated by division or stakes.

For stakes, branches that are already lignified and have several buds should be separated shortly before flowering. Plant these in well-fertilized, humid beds until they root. Once developed, transplant the outer buds to their final location.

Hyssopus officinalis is typically harvested in September and October.