Constituents:
Essential oil (thymol, carvacrol), flavonoids, Lamiaceae tannins like rosmarinic acid, and other bitter substances.
Thyme
Thymus vulgaris L.
Effects and Use:
The essential oil’s main compounds — thymol and carvacrol — are strong antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral agents. Rosmarinic acid supports these effects. Thyme is also antispasmodic and expectorant. Used internally as tea, syrup, or tincture for cough, mucus, and inflammation of the respiratory tract. In folk medicine, it is also used for digestion.
Externally, thyme essential oil or its components are found in chest rubs and ointments for colds or muscle/joint aches due to its warming and circulation-boosting effect.
Tea Preparation:
Steep 1 heaping teaspoon of the herb in 150 ml boiling water for 10 minutes, covered. Strain. Drink several cups daily.