Thymus vulgaris Thyme Related species:
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Garden thyme originated in the western
parts of the Mediterranean. Associated with death, it was used as a fumigant
after sacrifice and funerals. The Egyptians used thyme for embalming, and
the Welsh planted it on graves. In England, thyme was associated with murdered
men, and the souls of the dead were believed to dwell in the sweetly-perfumed
flowers of the herb. On the other hand, the Greeks associated thyme with
courage, and Lancastrian ladies used to embroider images of bees hovering
over thyme onto the clothes of knights going off to fight in the Crusades.
Thyme tea is used to alleviate inflammation, flatulence and diarrhoea. It is also a stimulant for the heart, circulation and central nervous system. A cup of hot thyme tea sweetened with honey taken last thing at night will promote sleep. Thyme, combined with dried rosemary and ground cloves, makes an effective moth repellent and clothes freshener. It is also used in the preparation of ointments, mouthwashes and cosmetics. The leaves can be used fresh or dried to flavour game, cheese and fish dishes. It is also used in sauces, salads and vegetable dishes. Mixed with bay and juniper, it is a valuable addition to foods that will be stored for some time before use, such as sausages. It is an essential ingredient in bouquet garni. Thyme is a small, perennial plant that prefers light, lime-rich, sandy soil. It should be trimmed regularly to maintain bushy growth. |