The Many Benefits Of Thyme Garden Herb

Thyme garden herb (Thymus vulgaris) is a perennial herb that can grow up to a height of about one foot.  This plant is native to the Mediterranean and lives for more than two years.  Thyme is typically used as a culinary herb.  However, there is a variety of purposes that this plant serves in the medicinal and aromatic areas as well.  Although there are many varieties of thyme, the more popular is “common thyme.” This type of thyme has a green-grayish color with woody stems growing up to 8 inches tall.  During the summer, this plant produces beautiful pinkish/lilac colored flowers that some choose to harvest and use for ornamental purposes.

Thyme is cultivated best in areas with full sun and well-drained soil.  This plant is typically planted in spring and can be grown by seeds, root divisions or cuttings with the quickest way being by root divisions.  Thyme is almost self sufficient, requiring very minimal maintenance.  Although this plant requires full sun, it can grow well inside as long as it is placed in a bright sunny area.

In the culinary field, thyme is the principle ingredient in many cuisines.  This herb is widely used in Caribbean, Italian, Greek, Persian, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Syrian and Turkish cuisines to flavor soups, veggies, stews, eggs, and meats.  As I have said before, growing your own fresh herbs and being able to use them on demand is a simple yet luxurious pleasure that Mother Nature has to offer.  Who doesn’t want to be able to pick fresh herbs from their very own plant that they cultivated; and enjoy the full flavor and benefits from it verses buying dried or transported herbs that have only a portion of the plants potency?  Not me.

In the medicinal area, thyme has been used to treat respiratory problems, fungus, and congestion.  Furthermore, it has been used to medicate bandages and has been used as an antiseptic and principle  ingredient in mouth wash.

Many herbal experts hold true to the fact that thyme can treat menstrual problems and relieve tooth aches. This herb is super nutritious containing more chromium and manganese than meat.

Here is an additional list of things that thyme has been used to treat:

  • Fungus
  • Bronchitis
  • Sore Throats
  • Inflammation
  • Acute skin conditions
  • Hair Loss
  • Depression
  • Athletes Foot
  • Stress
  • Muscle Cramps

The best time to harvest your thyme is mid day. This is when your plant is at its highest level of concentration of essential oils. What you want to do is cut about 5 inches of steam and let it air dry.  Once it has thoroughly dried, pluck the leaves from the steam and place the leaves in a glass jar and use as needed.

Thyme is a wonderful herb to cultivate with many benefits both culinary and medicinally.  Should you choose to cultivate this herb for either purpose it will be of great benefit and enjoyment.  Finally, let’s not forget that this plant can also be used for its aromatic and ornamental purposes.

Here’s To Happy Thyme Growing!

Janet Suzalski


Disclaimer: This web site is for educational purposes and is not meant to diagnose, cure, prevent or treat any disease.  I encourage you to discuss any health related issues you may be experiencing as well as any herbs and herbal remedies you are taking or considering with your health care practitioner.