Thyme

The thymus gland was named after the botanical name thymus, because the gland's appearance resembled the thyme flower...

Thymus vulgaris

Note: Middle - 50

Parts Used: flowers from and evergreen sub-shrub up to 45 cm high

Source: water or steam distillation from the fresh or partially dried leaves and flowering tops. 1. 'Red thyme oil' is the crude distillate. 2. 'white thyme oil' is produced by further re-distillation or rectification.

Description and Odor Effect: Red Thyme: a red, brown or orange liquid with a warm, spicy-herbaceous, powerful odor. White Thyme: a clear, pale yellow liquid with a sweet, green-fresh, milder scent.

Nature: purifying, uplifting

Blends well with: bergamot, petitgrain, rosemary, lavender, geranium, marjoram, lemon

Physical Uses: Thyme is the most antiseptic oil. It stimulates the immune system and can be used to treat respiratory ailments such as asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, coughs, croup, colds, influenza, sinusitis, emphysema and whooping cough. For skin and hair conditions it is helpful for boils, wounds, sores, yeast ailments; leucorrhoea (eye disease - cornea); it stimulates low blood pressure, and can be used as a digestive aid for flatulence. Thyme is a diuretic and removes uric acid in arthritis and gout.

Mental and Emotional Uses: Can be used to treat depression, nervous exhaustion and tiredness. Thyme dispels fear and strengthens the will.

Caution: A very powerful oil - use in small quantities. Avoid during pregnancy. Thyme should be avoided by people prone to epileptic seizures.

Therapeutic Properties: analgesic, anthelmintic, antibacterial, antidepressant, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antipruritic, antiputrid, antirheumatic, antiseptic (strong), antispasmodic, antitoxic, antitussive, antivenomous, antiviral, aperitif, aphrodisiac, astringent, balsamic, bronchodilator, cardiac, carminative, cicatrizant, counterirritant, cytophylactic, diaphoretic, digestive, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, hypertensor, insecticide, nervine, parasiticide, pectoral, rubefacient, sedative, stimulant, stomachic, sudorific, tonic, uplifting, vermifuge, warming

Applications: massage, inhalation, diffuser, mist spray, local application

Keyword: Stimulating

Thyme Magic: Women who wear a sprig of thyme in the hair make themselves irresistible. Very little is needed to stop recurring nightmares, placed under the pillow, it ensures restful sleep.