Thyme is a popular herb that belongs to the Lamiaceae family, which also includes mint, basil, and oregano. It is well-known for its aromatic leaves and is widely used in culinary, medicinal, and ornamental applications. Thyme has been used in traditional medicine for its potential medicinal properties, which may include being an antiseptic, expectorant, and having anti-inflammatory properties. It is often used to soothe coughs and sore throats and may also be used topically for certain skin conditions.
PART OF PLANT USED: flowers, leaves
ACTIVE INGREDIENTS:
thymol → antibacterial, antiparasitic, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, bug repellent.
carvacrol
PREPARATIONS: fresh, dried for teas, spice, essential oil, syrup, inhalation, tincture: glycerite or alcohol, dry extract
MEDICAL PROPERTIES
HEALTH BENEFITS OF THYME
spice, flavor
preservative (food or cosmetic preservative)
remedy for coughs, respiratory conditions, and bronchitis
productive (chesty) coughs → mucolytic ( tea, syrup, tincture, inhalation, nasal spray, chest rub lotion)
ease chest congestion
disinfection (mold)
skin eczema → helps irritation and inflammation in
acne → help inflammation, antibacterial
natural insect repellent: repels mosquitos - essential oil (thymolol)
chronic gastritis, stomach ulcer - increase the protective gastric mucus layers in your stomach,
appetizer regulator
digestive stimulant
cleanse and disinfect small wounds
strengthen gums, prevents the formation of cavities → toothpaste
ease muscle pain, inflammation
cosmetic: clean oily, impure skin with acne, foot relief products
CAREFUL
allergic reaction: thyme or similar plants like basil, oregano, sage, and lavender
skin sensitivity
fresh and dried thyme is generally safe to eat or drink as a refreshing tea
essential oil of thyme highly concentrated and can be toxic in their undiluted form
dont use if you have high blood pressure medication, anti-clotting drugs (anticoagulants), or are pregnant
not for children under 2 years old → can have bronhial spasm
stop using at least 2 weeks before surgery → might slow blood clotting
THYME - DRUG INTERACTION
Thyme - anticlotting drugs (anticoagulant): warfarin
can slow down blood clotting and increase the risk of bruising and bleeding
PLANT DESCRIPTION: THYME
small, perennial herb that typically grows to a height of about 6 to 12 inches (15-30 cm)
spreads horizontally as a low-growing shrub
woody stems and small, narrow leaves that are usually gray-green in color
leaves are arranged oppositely along the stems and are very aromatic when crushed
flowers are small and tubular with white or rosy-violet color
bloom during the late spring to early summer months
strong, pleasant fragrance that is often described as a mix of earthy, slightly sweet, and somewhat pungent
flavor of thyme is robust, slightly peppery, and slightly minty, adding depth and warmth to various dishes
GROWING THYME
sunny sites: at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day, mild winter
calcareous and light soils, well-drained
propagation: cuttings or by division of the basal tuft, make SADIKE with seeds (poor germination of the seed,)
Frequent weeding is necessary during cultivation
colder climates, it is advisable to intervene with the mulching in autumn
harvest for essential oil: in full bloom
harvest for dried plant: at the beginning of the flowering
one cut per year
yield: 8-10 t / ha of fresh product
maximum production in the third year of planting
If you are growing them inside, keep them away from a heater or fireplace, as they don't like too much heat.
INTERESTING:
associated with courage and inner strength, symbolizing resilience, determination, and the ability to overcome challenges.
Thyme in Culinary
Thyme is a staple herb in Mediterranean and European cuisines, used to flavor a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, sauces, roasts, and stuffing.
It pairs well with other herbs like rosemary, oregano, and parsley and is often used in combination to enhance the flavor of many recipes.
Add fresh or dried thyme to vegetable, beef, or chicken stock.
Use it in stews or soups for added flavor.
Replace or cut back on salt in recipes by adding thyme.
Infuse your favorite tea with thyme.
Add thyme to your favorite chicken or pork recipes.
Sprinkle fresh thyme as a topping to baked potatoes.