If you have ever wondered about the many benefits of thyme then this article for you. Thyme garden herb is a very versatile herb that has been used for centuries for medicinal, ornamental and culinary uses. In fact, thyme is such a staple to many that they create a thyme herb garden cultivating the very many types of thyme.
If you look closely in the cabinets of many households you will find that thyme is present almost all the time. However, it is very seldom that you will find one who knows the many benefits of this powerful herb. For ancient civilizations thyme was a must have, not only was it used for cooking but was used for an array of other things as well. For instance, the Egyptians used thyme in their embalming fluids and as for the Romans; it was used for good luck. In fact, to many, herbs including thyme were used as currency!
Thyme is a perennial plant with about three hundred and fifty species of its kind, and many of them make for great garden plants. The foliage of thyme is quite distinct in fragrance and is a plant that honey bees love due to its nectar producing abilities.
Garden or common thyme is the most common type of thyme used. This herb is a gray greenish woody shrub that produces purple, white or pink flowers native to the Mediterranean region and highly cultivated in France, Spain, European countries and the western U.S.
The leaves of thyme produce its own fragrances such as caraway, orange, celery, eucalyptus, pine and lemon aromas, the aromas of these plants stem from the essential oils of this herbs plant leaves.
Medicinally thyme has great benefits for the body and is rich in vitamin k, minerals, iron, calcium and manganese. This herb is used in many forms such as oils, tincture, teas and extracts. Thyme has antifungal and antibacterial properties making it a great bacteria fighter and disinfectant that is used as an alternative to commercial chemical solutions. Additionally, some of the most common uses for thyme medicinally are for bronchial ailments, anemia, athletes foot, parasites, fungal infections, lice, muscle pain, inflammation, eczema and intestinal disturbances. This herb too is known for its ability to promote hair growth from those suffering from hair loss and treats excess dandruff.
Thyme is traditionally used as a culinary aid to flavor and season stews, soups, vegetables, custards, stuffing’s, marinades and casseroles. This herb has a long lasting somewhat tangy flavor that will make any dish stand out. Additionally, the oil of thyme can be used in antiseptic ointments, toothpastes, perfumes, soaps and potpourris. The oil of thyme too has been used aromatically to relieve pain.
So, as you can see there are many benefits of thyme and this article just demonstrates a portion of its uses. In a nutshell, whether using thyme for culinary, medicinal or ornamental purposes there is more than enough reasons to have fresh thyme nearby or even cultivate your very own thyme garden herb.
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