Energetic Health Institute
1. Thyme is one of the most popular aromatic herbs used in the kitchen, but it also has a long history of ritual and medicinal uses you don’t want to miss!
2. Thyme is your go-to herb for improving respiratory and digestive conditions. It is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that possess anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties, and so much more!
3. Learn how to make your natural antibiotic – thyme honey.
We hope you are enjoying and learning new ways to support your health from our ‘Medicine in your Spice Cabinet’ series. If you are joining us, feel free to visit our e-library for our collection of practical and informative health articles aimed at inspiring the healer in you!
Our series on so-called “simple” herbs like Oregano, Rosemary, and Sage should not be taken lightly. These are some of the most potent natural medicines that can easily be incorporated into your daily nutritional regime—not to mention the array of antioxidants and flavors they add to every meal!
Thyme, our featured herb, is closely related to Oregano and is known for its tantalizing flavors. Most importantly, it is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, possessing anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. Its pharmacological effects are far-reaching, including treating respiratory infections, autoimmune conditions, neurodegenerative diseases, and digestive disorders, and studies support its ability to fight against various types of cancer cells. Keep reading to learn more about this excellent herb! (1)
Latin Name:
Thymus vulgaris (most common)
Thymus citrodorus (lemon thyme)
Thymus zygis (Spanish thyme)
Thymus serpyllum (Spanish thyme)
Family: Labiate / Lamiaceae (Mint Family)
Common Names:
Today, there are over 300 varieties of thyme native to the Mediterranean region. Thyme is a beloved herb that has been used for thousands of years, weaving its way through folklore and ceremonial rituals, treasured as an herbal medicine, and utilized for its culinary delight.
The Latin word for thyme, thymus, means courage and strength. Thyme has been associated with spiritual healing, protection, and purification. As a treasured herb, thyme was used in a variety of ways, including in temples and rituals, blended into liqueurs, and planted in orchards to attract pollinating honeybees.
Researchers have documented how the ancient Egyptians knew of its antibacterial effect and used thyme in ointments against eczema and fungus and for embalming their dead. Greek and Roman soldiers would carry a sprig of thyme in their armor as a symbol of strength and courage. In fact, they would even use thyme in their bath to rejuvenate tired soldiers. (2)
History shows it has been used as a medicine for leprosy, paralysis, respiratory infections, epilepsy, depression, gout, and digestive disorders, including food poisoning, anxiety, and insomnia. It is documented that during World War I, thyme was the go-to antiseptic on the battlefield. (3)
Thyme holds a prestigious place in herbal medicine due to its rich nutritional profile of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and other essential compounds such as fiber, calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, potassium, manganese, and vitamins A, K, B1, B2, B6 and C.
Thyme, like its counterpart Oregano, excels as an active medicinal plant for conditions associated with respiratory and digestive disorders, among other ailments. This is due in part to potent chemical compounds like thymol and carvacrol, which possess considerable antibacterial and antifungal properties. Its benefits don’t stop there; it’s also an antiviral, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory. (4) (5) (6) (7) (8)
Thymes’ history as a healing herb is supported by modern-day science for its varied use, including : (9) (10) (11) (12) (13) (14) (15)
Thyme also has a natural relaxing and supportive effect on the nervous system. Studies show thyme improves cognition while increasing hormone levels associated with the onset of neurodegenerative and psychiatric illnesses such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia, and depression. (16)
Thyme is a beautiful herb for flavoring your next meal. Here are some ways to use thyme in recipes:
Thyme can also be used in the following ways:
Note: When shopping for medicinal-grade essential oils, be sure to do your homework!
Thyme Honey Recipe
Thyme honey is a lovely way to ease coughs and bronchial problems. It eases inflammations in the mouth and throat caused by coughing, and it’s also soothing to the digestive system.
Thyme Tea Recipe
Serves: 1
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
Fresh and dried thyme is generally safe to eat or drink as a refreshing tea. However, allergic reactions can occur if you are sensitive to herbs in the Lamiaceae family, which include mint, basil, oregano, sage, and lavender.
Additionally, caution should be taken when using thyme essential oils. Essential oils are highly concentrated and can be toxic in their undiluted form. Ingesting too much thyme as an essential oil could cause a drop in blood pressure. (17)
Consult with your health care practitioner if you are taking any medication before using thyme essential oil or supplements or have any of the following conditions:
Are you ready to start your fresh herb garden? We detail all the steps in our Oregano article. Here are two websites that will get you started on your indoor or outdoor herbal garden:
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Thyme’s impressive history and medicinal uses are impressive. Incorporating this wonderful herb into your nutritional regime will ensure that you are on the right track to elevating your well-being.
What better natural antibiotic than thyme honey? It’s so simple to make, and you can do the same with many other herbs – the time is now to inspire the healer in you!
Are you ready to start taking control of your health? Join Dr. Henely, founder of the Energetic Health Institute, for a FREE 9-Lesson Course and find out how We approach natural healing at EHI!
M. Moriah Mor, a Naturopathic Practitioner and Certified Holistic Nutritionist, is the owner of GreenSilk.com. The company is committed to helping individuals lead healthier lifestyles through education, nutrition, life science research, and the development of Professional, High-Grade, Premium health products. Recognized for her outstanding dedication and contributions to the health and wellness industry for more than 18 years, Moriah is a graduate of the Energetic Health Institute, AMCC, and the University of Southern California. Her interest is focused on researching the latest scientific breakthroughs in the holistic health field.
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