Thyme or common thyme is a perennial, evergreen shrub and is native to Spain and the Mediterranean region, although it is now found throughout the world. It originates from wild thyme (T. serpyllum), which is native to Britain and Europe, and has been used since the time of the ancient Egyptians. The leaves and flowers are used in herbal medicine and aromatherapy, whilst the leaves are used in cooking as a preservative and to add flavour.
Medicinal Properties of Thyme
Thyme contains volatile oils, flavanoids, gums and labiatic and caffeic acids. The volatile oil consists mainly of thymol, the main active constituent. Other compounds include phenols (tannins) and carvacol. It is antibacterial, antiviral, antispasmodic, antitussive (cough preventative), expectorant, anti-fungal, anti-parasitic, antioxidant, carminative (wind relieving), and antiseptic. Wild thyme is also sedative and diaphoretic (promotes perspiration).
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