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Time for ThymeThyme (thymus vulgaris) is an herb the ancient Greeks and Romans knew as a plant that was said to impart courage, strength, and elegance to its user. Although today it is primarily known as a common culinary herb, Thyme also enjoys a well-deserved reputation as a valuable medicinal plant. The light gray-green shrub with small white or purple flowers has a dry, somewhat sweet scent and a slightly minty, spicy taste. Thyme is indigenous to the Mediterranean region although it has been cultivated widely in the United States. Thymol is one of the volatile oils present in Thyme and is used in many commercial mouthwashes, toothpaste, and disinfectants. A potent and versatile antibacterial, Thyme essential oil is considered a must-have for any basic home herbal kit. Red Thyme oil is reddish-brown with a strong, spicy scent. One of the most powerful essential oils, Thyme should be used with caution and should always be diluted with a quality carrier oil (sunflower, apricot, or almond are all good options) when used topically. Five to ten drops of Thyme essential oil to one ounce of your favorite carrier oil should suffice. Thyme's expectorant abilities and anti-spasmodic qualities make it a favorite among herbalists for the treatment of coughs. A steam bath with Thyme is an efficient way to treat bronchial, sinus, and throat complaints. First throw a handful of the dried leaves in a bowl of steaming water, then drape a towel over your head and around the bowl to create a small steam room. Inhale deeply until the steam dissipates. This can be repeated four or five times daily until the cough clears. Thyme tea is a well-known home treatment in Europe for whooping cough. A luxurious "tea" bath can treat fungal infections, insect bites, and other skin irritations. Toss the dried herb into hot bath water, and let it steep a minute before climbing in to relax. A few drops of the Essential Oil can be used to make an easy, comforting foot-bath as well. Arthritis pain, muscle ache, or menstrual cramps can be soothed by applying a warm compress made from Thyme infused water to the sore area. Headaches, too, can be relieved this way. Thyme is also useful as a gastro-intestinal cleanser. Diarrhea, flatulence and indigestion can all be treated with Thyme tea. Thyme essential oil mixed with water in a spray bottle is a handy way to clear the air in a sick room, or may be sprayed on counter tops during humid weather to staunch bacterial growth. Diluted with good carrier oil, Thyme essential oil can be used during massage to calm irritability, raise spirits, and invigorate the mind. It blends well with other essential oils, especially citrus oils like lemon, bergamot, and grapefruit. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS: Thyme is not safe for use by pregnant women since it is a uterine stimulant. It also may increase blood pressure and should not be used by people with high blood pressure. DISCLAIMER: This information is in no way intended to be a substitute for modern medical care. Do not self-treat any medical complaint without the guidance of a licensed health care provider. by Dawn Friedman Freelance writer and mother in Columbus, Ohio.
Copyright (c) 2000 by Stony Mountain Botanicals, Ltd. All rights reserved.
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