Thyme

THYME - Thymus vulgaris - Mint Family Common names: Common thyme, garden thyme, tomillo HISTORY OF USE Thyme is an ancient Mediterranean herb with a long history of use as both medicine and food. The Egyptians used thyme’s powerful antiseptic and preservative qualities by including it in their embalming mixture. The Greek word thymus means “courage” and the Greeks denoted thyme as elegance. The Romans used Thyme medicinally as a cough remedy, digestive aid, and treatment for intestinal worms. During the Middle Ages, thyme became linked to courage. It was fashionable for noble women to embroider sprigs of thyme on scarves and give them to favorite knights departing for the Crusades. As the centuries passed, thyme was used as an antiseptic during plagues. Those troubled by “melancholia” (depression) were advised to sleep on thyme-stuffed pillows. By the late 17th century, apothecary shops were selling thyme oil as a topical antiseptic under the name “oil of origanum.” In 1853, French chemist M. Lallemand named it thymol. From the mid-19th century through World War I, thymol enjoyed great popularity as an antiseptic. In the late 19th century, thyme was used in hospitals as a disinfectant and to speed patients’ recovery. Although thymol has since been replaced by more potent germ fighters, it remains an ingredient in several antiseptic mouthwashes. CULINARY USE Thyme is a favored herb in Greek, Italian, and French cuisines. Thyme pairs well with lamb, poultry, tomato, lemons, and flavors sauces, soups, stocks. MEDICINAL USE Thyme increases vitality. The thymol volatile oil has been used in herbal cough drops and in commercial antiseptics. Its antimicrobial and antispasmodic actions lend itself well to promote health in a variety of situations. Nervous system: Thyme helps with occasional mild anxiety, helps with occasional sleeplessness. Respiratory system: Constant clearing of the throat with mucus secretions is alleviated with the use of thyme. It has been used in European tradition for whooping cough. It can be helpful with any feverish condition to open pores, warm the system, and thin and move mucus. Immune system: In laboratory studies, thyme fights several disease-causing bacteria and fungi, supporting the herb’s traditional role as an antiseptic. Digestive system: Thymol relaxes the smooth muscle tissue of the gastrointestinal tract, making thyme an antispasmodic. The action of these chemical constituents lends support to its traditional role as a digestive aid. Reproductive system: Antispasmodics relax not only the digestive tract but also other smooth muscles, such as the uterus. Tincture of thyme may help relieve menstrual cramps, lending credence to the Eclectic physicians’ use of this herb. In large amounts, thyme oil and thymol are considered uterine stimulants. HERBAL ACTIONS antiseptic, astringent, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, antibiotic, diuretic, expectorant, antitussive, antispasmodic, antioxidant, anthelmintic FLAVOR & ENERGETICS Pungent, hot, dry, stimulating CONSTITUENTS Volatile oils, including thymol; bitter principle; tannin; flavonoids; triterpenoids. CAUTIONS Do not use thyme medicinally during pregnancy. Suggested culinary spice amounts are okay, however. Thyme oil can irritate mucous membranes so ensure it is well diluted. TEA BLENDS For sore throats, it combines well with sage. To boost the immune system, mix with echinacea. DISCLAIMER This information is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, heal, mitigate, or remedy disease. It is for educational purposes only and should not be implemented without the express consent of your healthcare practitioner.