Thyme ( Thymus vulgaris ) is a wild herb of the eastern Mediterranean that belongs to the family of thistles. It is cultivated in the garden and in a pot in the yard for its medicinal and culinary use . The parts of the plant that we collect are the leaves just before it blooms, which have a very pleasant smell and taste and we dry them in the shade at a temperature below 35 degrees Celsius.

For its medicinal use we have reports since antiquity and specifically Hippocrates recommended it for the removal of phlegm , used it as a warming and diuretic. The ancient Greeks and Romans had associated thyme with bravery, courage, endurance and erotic desire, while warriors are said to have bathed in water flavored with thyme.

Dried thyme leaves contain thymol and carvacrol , which are powerful antimicrobials and antifungals , but also small amounts of tannin , flavonoids and triterpenes . Thyme has a strong antioxidant effect and fights free radicals.

Its healing properties are as follows:

You can read more about its properties and its use as an essential oil in this article .

Let’s look at some ways to use it for some health issues. For coughs and pertussis, boil 2 tablespoons of dried thyme leaves from our product in 1 liter of water to make an infusion , strain it and use it during the day when we need it. For respiratory infections and phlegm we can make a syrup . Also, by immersing the leaves in alcohol we can prepare a tincture .

There are reports that thyme when mixed with olive oil enhances its healing properties, a common practice in the Mediterranean diet that can contribute to longevity and shield the body from serious diseases.

We can also take it preventively , if we feel the onset of the symptoms of a cold to shield our body. We can also make a decoction for diarrhea and digestive problems, while it is even suitable for fever.

Many commercial cosmetics contain thyme as an ingredient due to the above properties mentioned. It is used in massage oils, lotions, dandruff shampoos, toothpastes, face creams and many other similar products.

Precautions: Avoid rubbing, drinking and using thyme in any form during pregnancy as it is a uterine stimulant.