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Thyme Oil
Thyme's curative powers were valued as far back as the Middle Ages. The herb has been used successfully for skin and circulatory disorders and is an excellent antiseptic and tonic. The word Thyme comes from the Greek and means "to make a burnt offering." Its essential oil - Thyme oil - is obtained through steam distillation. Approximately 143 pounds of flowering Thyme plants are required to make 1 pint of oil.
One of Thyme's main components, thymol, strengthens the immune system and has a strong antibacterial effect. Because Thyme oil is believed to loosen mucus and promote expectoration, the aroma, when inhaled in the proper amounts and dilutions, helps to subdue infections in the respiratory tract. It also works its effects through absorption by the skin. Because there are many types of Thyme and not all can be used safely, use this oil with great care. Like all essential oils, Thyme oil should never be taken internally.
With at least 100 types of Thyme plants, there are many to choose from if you decide to plant this herb in your garden. Most are used for decorative and culinary purposes with a variety of Thyme-flavors and scents to choose from. (Thymbra spicata), sometimes called hop-headed thyme because of its blue flower clusters, or curry leaf (Murraya koenigii), a Himalayan shrub with edible, curry-flavored leaves are only a few types. The thyme most often used in cooking is know as English thyme (a form of Thymus vulgaris). Like the other thymes, it has woody stems with small oval leaves. It can reach 8 to 12 inches high, though some varieties are smaller. Creeping varieties make attractive aromatic rock garden or edging plants. Loved for its lemon scent, lemon thyme (Thymus citriodorus) is a delightful plant for both garden and kitchen. One cultivar of lemon thyme with variegated yellow leaves and a prostrate habit is known as 'Doone Valley'. It makes a beautiful ground cover, particularly in winter when it turns strong shades of yellow, red, and green. Caraway thyme (Thymus herbabarona) is a low-growing plant with dark green leaves sporting the fragrance of its namesake herbs. Others thymes sport aromas of lavender, orange, oregano, and rose geranium! Wooly or creeping thyme would work for a decorative pathway.
A FEW THYME GARDENING LINKS
Desirable Herb Varieties: Thyme
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) Plants
Culinary Uses: Thyme has a strong piquant or lemony flavor. For fresh use, the flavor is best just before flowering. Enhance the flavor of meat, fish and poultry dishes with thyme. For chicken and fish marinades, bruise fresh sprigs of thyme and tarragon, and combine with red-wine vinegar and olive oil. Use in herb butters and cottage cheese.
Medicinal Uses: It is safe to use thyme as a seasoning during pregnancy, but strong medicinal doses should be avoided if there is any possibility that you are pregnant. Consult an aromatherapist before using any Thyme oil and NEVER ingest it. Thyme oil should always be diluted before using it and it is for EXTERNAL USE ONLY.
THERAPEUTIC EFFECT: Thyme is a proven treatment for respiratory tract disorders, circulatory problems, digestive complaints, physical and emotional weakness (emotional instability), joint and muscular aches and skin disorders. The main components in Thyme oil, thymol and carvacrol, have a strong disinfectant effect; they inhibit inflammation and support all body functions. Thyme essential oil acts as a antibacterial, antioxidant and antispasmodic in the proper dilutions, making it beneficial for a host of complaints. Thyme has proven most successful for the treatment of colds, sore throats, coughs and bronchitis. Because of its antispasmodic and analgesic effects, it has been found beneficial for those suffering from rheumatism or menstrual disorders.
FOR COLD RELIEF
If you have a cold, an immersion bath with thyme oil can help clear your respiratory tract and will even help your cough.10 drops Thyme essential oil
3-4 tablespoons Whipping Cream
Add the whipping cream and Thyme oil to the bathwater. Rest for at least one hour after the bath.
Because of its antiviral properties, Thyme oil helps cleanse the air. Use the essential oil in a room diffuser when your family comes down with the flu. Protect yourself from flus and viruses by fortifying your body with Thyme oil; you can either inhale the oil or have it massaged into your skin. Begin treatments in autumn to help protect yourself during the colder months and continue them for a month.
When you need to re-energize, add Thyme oil to an immersion bath.5 drops Thyme essential oil
7 drops Bergamot essential oil
3-4 tablespoons Whipping Cream
Add oils with whipping cream or other base, such as Sweet Almond oil or Sea Salt. Mix well. Add to your bath to strongly stimulate the circulatory system. It's best not to use if right before bedtime.
Thyme oil supports healthy skin flora and protects against pathogens, such as fungus and viruses. You can mix the oil with a body lotion or skin cream.5 drops Thyme essential oil
5 drops Lemon essential oil
1/4 cup lotion or skin cream (scant measure)
To disinfect the skin:15 drops Thyme essential oil
1/3 cup Liquid Soap or Shower Gel
Mix the oil very thoroughly with the soap to avoid any skin irritation.
The components of Thyme oil stimulate the formation of white blood cells, thereby strengthening the immune system and protecting the body against infection. The body can absorb thyme oil (always diluted) through the skin or through the respiratory tract.
In large quantities Thyme oil can be toxic, therefore make sure you observe all precautions when using this oil. Because it is stimulating, never use this oil when you are pregnant, if you have hypothyroidism or if you are epileptic. It is best to consult an aromatherapist before you use any type of this oil externally.
RESOURCE: The Complete Guide To Natural Healing.
Every effort is made to provide medically accurate and up-to-date information that is intended to complement, not replace, the advice of your health care provider or midwife. Before undertaking the advice contained on this website, you should consult with your health care provider or midwife, who can best assess your individual needs, symptoms and treatment.
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