The Essential Herbal...Thyme

Our next essential herbal in a natural first aid kit is well known to most who cook. Most use Thyme to enhance flavoring in soups, chicken and other dishes, but don't know that it is a powerful antiseptic, and can be used medicinally as well.

Thyme

(Thymus vulgaris)


Thyme is a cultivated variety of the Wild Thyme (Thymus serpyllum) of Southern Europe. Thyme is now cultivated worldwide. The aerial parts are harvested in summer.
Thyme essential oil is strongly antifungal and antiseptic. The volatile oil in Thyme is thymol. Thymol and the flavonoids is also a antispasmodic for muscles.
In 1990 research in Scotland suggest that thyme has a markedly tonic effect, supporting the body's normal function and countering aging.
Extracts of the herb have shown strong antibacterial activity against H. pylori, a bacteria often associated with stomach ulcers.
The antiseptic and tonic properties make it very useful for the immune system. It is especially useful treating fungal infections both internally and externally.
Externally, it can be used for bites, stings, athletes foot, thrush and other fungal infections.
An infusion or tea made with thyme can be used for colds and flu. For achy muscles, an infusion can be rubbed on, or used in a tub to soak in.
The tincture can be used for thrush. Swish and spit out. To use as a vaginal wash, dilute tincture in water and wash area. Clean area well.
A syrup made of thyme can be useful for coughs.
The essential oil should be diluted when used. The essential oil should not be taken internally.

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