Thyme is a culinary staple in cuisines worldwide. Being one of the herbs from the mint family, you will find it most kitchen’s spice sets. However, thyme is not just an aromatic herb; it has some medicinal properties also. Want to know those health benefits? If yes, then read on and discover the potential benefits and uses of thyme.
Thymus vulgaris or thyme is an evergreen herb indigenously grown in the Mediterranean region. It has more than 400 species and is used by different countries for different purposes. Like Ancient Egyptians used it for embalming, Greeks burnt it as incense, etc.
Although today thyme has started to be acknowledged as a medicinal herb. The active compounds in it like, thymol, tannin, carvacrol, etc., are helpful to treat various health problems. The following is the list of benefits you can get from thyme. It includes:
- For high blood pressure
A study on rats found that a particular species of thyme, Thymus Linearis Benth, can help decrease heart rate and control blood pressure & cholesterol levels. Along with adding thyme, you should try to reduce sodium in your diet to lower your heart rate.
- For foodborne bacterial infections
As per a test, thyme oil was believed to have anti-microbial properties that are helpful to preserve food from common foodborne bacteria, which are the significant cause of infections. It helps to kill pathogens and harmful microbes that can contaminate food or beverages.
- For breast cancer
Breast cancer is when few breast cells start to grow abnormally. Although its survival rate has improved with advancing technology, doubt still lingers in the back of the mind. Research has shown that wild thyme might be effective for the death of breast cancer cells.
- For yeast infection
The prime cause of yeast infection in the mouth and vagina is Candida albicans fungus. Generally, our immune system can defend from this fungus; however, the infection spreads when we are ill. A university in Italy has found that active compounds present in thyme essential oil can destroy the fungus.
- For common skin problems
If you want to try an herbal remedy for your skin problems like acne instead of over-the-counter medicines, then you could thyme a shot. It has anti-bacterial properties that might help to fight acne, pimples, etc. However, remember that it will not have an instant effect.
- To relieve cough
If you are experiencing persistent cough especially, at night, you can use thyme to relieve yourself. Also, some studies say that thyme might also help reduce symptoms of acute bronchitis, tract infection, common cold, etc. Hence, next time try thyme tea if you face a cough.
- To disinfect and get rid of the pest
Thyme has fungicidal properties that can help to get rid of air pollutants like mold. It is also used in multiple pesticides to target bacteria and viruses indoor & outdoor. Try to rub thyme leaves between your hands to get pest-fighting results.
Side Effects of Thyme
Generally, thyme is safe to consume. Although it can trigger side effects like upset stomach, headache, dizziness, etc., when consumed in large portions, especially in the form of medicine.
Tips to add Thyme to the diet
- If cooked perfectly and in the right amount, thyme can give a subtle yet unique aroma and mouth-watering taste to your dishes.
- You can add dried thyme to your sauté vegetables & seafood.
- You can sprinkle some dried thyme over the lentil soup at the end of the cooking to enhance flavors.
The Bottom Line
Thyme has multiple benefits if used with heed. Hence, add it to your diet, either with delicious recipes or herbal tea, and take advantage of thyme.
