Thyme (Thymus vulgaris Lamiaceae)

Other Names: Common Thyme, German Thyme, Garden Thyme

Thyme, a low shrub native to the Mediterranean’s arid slopes, was a symbol of courage in ancient Greece and medieval Europe. Its grayish-green leaves, with curled edges, cover upright woody stems. From May to August, it bears small white or pink flowers. Its sharp taste and rich aroma make it a popular culinary spice.

Parts for Use

Leaves and Flower Stalks

1. Harvested at the start of flowering and dried in a shady place.
2. Used in infusions, capsule powders, cough syrups, and for extracting essential oil.

Ingredients

Contains flavonoids and 0.5–2% essential oil, including thymol, methylcavicol, cineole, and borneol, with varying compositions.

Use in Treatment

Thyme’s flavonoids promote muscle relaxation, making it effective for digestive issues like slow digestion, cramps, bloating, vomiting, and insufficient bile secretion. It soothes coughs, clears nasal congestion in colds, hay fever, and asthma. The essential oil’s antiseptic properties aid in treating minor cuts, insect bites, stings, gingivitis, and tonsillitis. Thyme is also used for muscle pain and injuries.

Cultivation

Grow from seeds sown in early April or from cuttings, in warm, sunny locations with rich, dry, light soil.

Preparation and Dosage

For Internal Use (Digestive Issues, Cough)

1. Infusion: Steep 2 g dried herb in a cup of boiling water for 5 minutes, cover, strain, drink 3 cups daily.
2. Capsules (325 mg): Take 3 capsules daily with water.

For External Use (Injuries, Muscle Pain)

1. Infusion: Wash affected areas several times daily.
2. Ointment: Apply to affected areas several times daily.

Warnings

1. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
2. Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
3. Use essential oil only under medical supervision.
4. Excessive use is not recommended, though no harmful side effects are reported.