Thyme can be used not only in the kitchen to refine various dishes, but also helps with health complaints such as a cold. The medicinal herb is especially good for loosening a stuck cough. That is why thyme is used in various cough syrups. In addition to coughs, the herb is also said to be helpful for other ailments – such as gastrointestinal problems. Learn more about the effect, storage and use of thyme here.
Thyme as a healing herb
Just like basil, rosemary and oregano, thyme is one of the herbs that are popular in Mediterranean cuisine. For centuries, however, thyme has also been known to have a healing effect. For use against physical ailments, all components of this plant can be used except the root. The herb contains about one to three percent essential oil. The main components of the oil are thymol and carvacrol. In addition, however, tannins and flavonoids probably also provide the healing effect of the culinary herb.
Effect of thyme
Thyme is used in various fields of medicine, because it is said to have various effects:
- Thyme is mainly used against a cough that is stuck. In addition, he should also be helpful in acute bronchitis.
- In addition, the medicinal herb is said to have an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect, an inhibitory effect on the spread of acne and a soothing effect on inflammation in the mouth.
- In addition, thyme is also said to have a soothing effect on gastrointestinal complaints such as bloating and flatulence.
Thyme is also said to help increase courage and bravery. Therefore, in the past, knights often got a few sprigs of thyme tied to their armor by noble ladies before a tournament. Perhaps a small bag with a few sprigs of the culinary herb will also help you in an exam situation.
Cough syrup with thyme
The essential oil found in thyme helps loosen and clear stuck mucus in the airways when you have a cough. By loosening the cough, the cold can heal faster and better. In the case of acute bronchitis, a combination of thyme and primrose extract has proven to be particularly effective. Cowslip also has an expectorant effect – but in a different way than thyme. As a result, the two substances complement each other ideally. Various forms of medicines are available for the treatment of coughs. For example, there are capsules, pastilles, drops and juices containing thyme extract. Likewise, however, a thyme tea is also effective against cough.
Tea with thyme
You can buy a thyme tea either as a ready-made tea mixture in the pharmacy or simply prepare it yourself. To do this, put a teaspoon of thyme leaves in a cup and pour 250 milliliters of boiling water over the leaves. Let the tea steep for five minutes, then strain it and sweeten it with a little honey, depending on your preference.
Other uses
In addition to coughs and colds, there are other areas in which thyme is said to have a healing effect. However, this effect is not always scientifically proven.
- Ointments with thyme promote blood circulation.
- Gargling with thyme tea helps with inflammation of the mouth and throat.
- Thyme stops flatulence and heartburn.
- Thyme tea calms the nervous system and is therefore recommended for restlessness or difficulty falling asleep.
- A cup of thyme tea helps to alleviate the discomfort of a hangover.
- Half a teaspoon of thyme powder on an empty stomach helps against bad breath. Drink a glass of water afterwards.
Thyme in pregnancy
In folk medicine, thyme is also known as a women’s herb. This is due to the fact that the culinary herb is said to have an antispasmodic effect on menstrual cramps. Even during pregnancy, you can safely use thyme to season dishes. However, do not overdo it, because possibly the herb in larger quantities has a stimulating effect on the uterus. Normally, however, this effect does not occur in the quantities used for seasoning or teas.
Proper storage and use
Thyme blooms from May to October and is found mainly in Central and Southern Europe.However, as a plant in a pot or dried, the culinary herb is available throughout the year. Freshly harvested, it can be kept in the refrigerator for up to two days. Dried thyme should be stored tightly closed, dry and dark to preserve its aroma as much as possible. When using thyme oil, you should observe the following warnings:
- Apply the oil only diluted, otherwise irritation of mucous membranes may occur. If in doubt, ask at the pharmacy.
- Also ask a doctor or pharmacist for advice before using the oil on babies or young children. In them, the oil may possibly lead to respiratory distress.
- People with asthma should use thyme oil only under special caution. Under no circumstances should you inhale with the oil, otherwise an asthma attack can be triggered.
