Health Benefits of Thyme
Thyme has long been revered for its nutritional health benefits far before being extensively utilized for its culinary properties. Fresh and dried thyme have been used to naturally treat problems of congestion, chronic coughing, sore throat, inflammatory concerns and to ward off colds and the flu.
Thyme is full of health promoting nutrients. Fresh thyme is a source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, manganese and Omega 3 fatty acids. Dried thyme is a source of vitamin K, dietary fiber, folate, iron, vitamin C, vitamin E, Omega 3 fatty acids, magnesium and manganese.
Thymol
What makes thyme unique is its array of oils, most famously thymol. Thymol has been used for centuries for its antiseptic properties. Thymol is a powerful disinfectant and quite commonly used in mouthwash.
Powerful Expectorant
Thymol is one of the active ingredients in herbal cough and cold remedies. This is due to its natural expectorant properties. Thyme has traditionally been used to suppress coughing, ease chest congestion, and help prevent colds. Recent studies suggest that thyme effectively helps treat acute bronchitis.
Antibacterial Properties
Thyme and its volatile oil, thymol, contain antibacterial properties. In fact, thyme has been traditionally been used to treat a variety of yeast, fungal and bacterial infections. Thymol based ointments are commonly used to treat insects bits and other skin wounds.
Traditional Herbal Uses
- Both fresh and dried thyme have been used to treat a variety of ailments. Thyme is commonly consumed to help treat problems of digestion and is said to be particularly effective in improving the digestion of fats.
- Thyme has also been traditionally used to help increase and stimulate appetite.
- Thyme is also used as a herbal hair care remedy including the prevention of dandruff.
- Thyme has been used to treat menstrual cramps.
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