Ancient Egyptians used Thyme during mummification rituals due to its bactericidal and fungicidal effects.
Thyme also has its fair share of dark sides. To learn about the good and bad aspects of Thyme, read on!
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Thyme Plant [Description]
Beneficial Thyme plants have over 400 subspecies (native to parts of Europe), which are flowering plants in the Lamiaceae family.
However, Romans were the first to spread the health benefits of Thyme throughout Europe, but only as room purifiers and to flavor foods.
Additionally, in Middle Ages, Thyme was used to ward off nightmares during sleep.
But, the practice of using Thyme for health benefits has slowly expanded worldwide in traditional and modern medicines.
Learn more about this godsend herb from the table below.
| Feature(s) | Description(s) |
|---|---|
| Nomenclature | Common Name: Common Thyme, Garden Thyme, English Thyme Scientific Name: Thymus vulgaris Family: Lamiaceae |
| Ecology | Life Cycle: Perennial Habit: Creeping Herb Habitat: Dry, Sandy, and Rocky USDA Zones: 4 to 10 |
| Morphology | Growth Size: 2-15 inches tall and 8-12 inches wide Growth Rate: Fast |
| Planting Space | 12-24 inches |
| Growth Requirements | Temperature: 68-86 °F Light: 5-10 hours daily (direct sunlight) Water: Every 1-4 weeks (spring and summer) Soil & pH: Well-draining sandy or loamy (pH: 6-8) |
10 Health Benefits of Thyme
The leaves and flowers of Thyme are edible either in dried or fresh form, which helps the plant own numerous medical importance.
You can consume all aerial portions to get the health benefits of Thyme.
1. Rich Nutrient Source
Thyme contains phytonutrients like vitamins, iron, potassium, calcium, manganese, and magnesium.
Additionally, thymol, an essential oil extracted from Thyme, has curative properties due to its nutrient contents.
2. Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties
Thyme is loaded with phenolic essential oils, giving it anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Additionally, TEOs, along with thymol, boost cells’ antioxidant activity.
To get this benefit, steep a fresh cup of Thyme tea.
3. Boosts Immunity
Thyme contains vitamins A and C, which are good for eyesight and mucus membranes.
Chemical studies of Thyme reveal the presence of vitamins like B6, K, and E that strengthen immunity.
As Thyme possesses antioxidant properties, it helps fight off viral infections and colds, boosting immunity.
4. Improves Gastrointestinal Health
Consuming Thyme can save you if you’re a patient with gastrointestinal problems such as bloating and lower intestinal cramps.
One article mentions using Thyme’s essential oil to reduce the infestation of hookworms and ascarid worms in the stomach.
The chemical compounds present in Thyme may also inhibit the growth of cells that causes colon and rectum cancer.
Moreover, the oil in Thyme can induce the cancer cells to die independently, saving your stomach from potential threats.
5. Promotes Skin Rejuvenation
Thyme carries vitamin C, which is beneficial for acne-ridden skin, delays aging symptoms like wrinkles, and reduces fine lines.
Likewise, Thyme’s antibacterial and antifungal properties help heal sores, wounds, scars, and cuts.
They even relieve burns and act as a natural remedy for rashes, making your skin healthier and giving it a new glow.
Also, it delays aging symptoms like wrinkles and fine lines due to vitamins C and A.
Further, Thyme tea can be employed topically on the skin to combat athlete’s foot, ringworm, and yeast infestations.
Pro tip: Mix Witch Hazel twigs or stems and Thyme into a water-filled jar and let it steep for 1-2 days. The liquid turns amber, which can be applied to the skin as a toner.
Similarly, Thyme benefits for hair and scalp include reducing the incidence of dandruff and fortifying hair follicles.
6. Controlling Blood Pressure and Sugar Levels
Thyme belongs to the Lamiaceae family, and members of this family contain Rosmarinic Acid.
Additionally, in hypertensive rats, Rosmarinic Acid has been proven to lower systolic pressure.
This has great potential in modern medicines to create drugs that can maintain sound heart health.
7. Soothes Cough and Sore
Traditionally, the Thyme plant is used as medicine to cure respiratory tract infections such as cough and bronchitis.
Also, Thyme’s essential oil (thymol) contains antibacterial flavonoids bestowing the plant mucus-expelling properties.
The effectiveness of this concoction is comparable to the synthetic cough-reducing drug Ambroxol.
Additionally, this tonic bestows antibacterial and anti-fungal powers to the patient and is safe for human use.
Besides a healthy throat, Thyme benefits lungs by clearing all the mucus out and helps you to breathe better.
8. Natural Bug Repellent
If pests are chomping your garden produce, you can rely on Thyme as a safeguard mechanism to deter them.
It also works as effective oil against adult mosquitoes and their larvae.
The best way to keep these pesky bugs away is by companion planting Thyme with other vegetables and herbs as border plants.
However, keep at least 12-24 inches of space between herbs like Oregano and Lavender to increase the efficacy of this insect-repellant barrier.
DIY Repellent: Mix 4 drops of Thyme oil for every teaspoon of olive oil, or combine 5 drops for every 2 ounces of water.
9. Culinary Uses
Thyme is famous for its culinary versatility, flavoring fish meals, roasted meats, baked goods, soups, cocktails, and tea.
As a versatile herb, Thyme enhances the taste of any dish due to its sweet, herby aroma.
However, the proper way to gain the health benefits of Thyme is by enjoying a hot cup of Thyme tea.
How to Make Thyme Tea?
You only need fresh sprigs and water to prepare and reward yourself with Thyme tea benefits.
- First, boil water in a kettle.
- Add 8-10 fresh Thyme sprigs to a cup.
- Then, pour water on it.
- Allow steeping for 5 minutes.
- Finally, enjoy your Thyme tea!
Watch the video below for visual help!
10. Mold Control
Fungus, like molds, lurk in humid places, destroying foodstuff and furniture.
You can also prepare anti-fungal sprays with Thyme sprigs to coat wooden furniture and make them fungi-proof.
Side Effects of Thyme
Thyme is safe to touch and consume for humans and pets.
Excess consumption of Thyme plants or their associated oil can irritate nasal cavities and cause abdominal pains, headaches, and dizziness.
So, you should not forget to dilute the Thyme oil before using it.
Where to Buy Thyme?
You can buy a live Thyme plant from these links for its wonderful benefits.
| Sites | Expected Delivery Periods |
|---|---|
| Walmart | Within 2 days after placing an order |
| The Growers Exchange | Within 14 days after placing an order |
| Amazon | Within 4-5 days after placing an order |
From Editorial Team
Conclusion
Thyme is a pet-friendly herb with culinary and medicinal.
From preparing healthful concoctions to brewing a relaxing hot beverage, Thyme never disappoints!
