[plant profiles
Thyme
Thyme is a useful and beautiful herb that can be used in the kitchen as well as in the garden. It has many uses and benefits, so it’s worth learning more about this plant and how to grow and use this amazing plant for yourself.
Physical Description
Thyme is a perennial herb with soft, woody stems and small, oval leaves that grow in opposite pairs. It can grow up to two feet tall but is typically around 12 inches high. Thyme flowers are purple, pink or white and are densely packed into small clusters at the top of the stem. The flowers bloom throughout the summer season until fall when they become replaced by fruits that resemble tiny balls of cotton. Thyme is native to the Mediterranean region but has since been introduced all over Europe as well as North America where it grows best in warm climates.
Which Parts to Use
Thyme leaves, flowers and stems can be used in cooking. The leaves are the most common part used, though stems can be used for soups and stews while you're waiting for a batch of thyme to grow into its flowering stage. In addition to being delicious on meat dishes (think roasted chicken), thyme's peppery flavor pairs well with lemon juice and olive oil for a zesty salad dressing or tomato-based pasta sauces. Thyme also has some medicinal properties; it's been used to treat colds, coughs and sore throats since ancient times.
Uses of Thyme
Thyme can be used for culinary purposes, as it provides a lot of flavor. It’s incredible taste also makes it a favorite for brewing tea or as a natural breath freshener. Thyme is a fragrant herb that has been used for centuries as an anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal remedy. It’s medicinal properties have been known to aid in relief of coughs, sore throats and respiratory issues. It might also help with heartburn and indigestion. You can also use thyme infused oil for soap making as it can assist with some skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema. It’s also a great source of natural green dye.
Growing and Harvesting Tips
Thyme is a hardy, easy-to-grow perennial herb that requires little care once established. To start your own crop of thyme, simply scatter seeds thinly over a well-drained soil in full sun and water regularly (every two to four days). Thyme can also be propagated from root cuttings taken in early spring or summer; simply remove the lower portion of a stem, plant it upright in potting soil or other planting medium and keep moist until new growth appears. Thyme plants prefer warm climates with good drainage and thrive in sandy soils with plenty of humus but may tolerate clay if given sufficient water.
Begin harvesting herbs as soon as they are large enough to use—at least 2 inches tall—for best flavor, though you can begin snipping them occasionally even when they're smaller. For best results, harvest herbs before noon; before 10 a.m., if possible (the sun's heat will cause some leaf loss). Remove entire stems at ground level by twisting them off gently; do not pull on branches because this can damage tender roots beneath the surface
Precautions and Possible Interactions
Thyme is generally considered safe for most people when taken in moderation. However, it should not be taken by pregnant women or those with thyroid disease. Thyme may interact with certain medications; consult your doctor before using it if you are taking any prescription drugs.
Thyme may also cause nausea or stomach upset in some individuals; if you experience these symptoms, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention if they persist or worsen.
History and Folklore
Thyme has been used for thousands of years both medicinally and as a flavoring. It is mentioned in the Bible and was used by ancient Greeks and Romans, who believed it could cure everything from headaches to snakebites. Thyme appears in the works of Roman poet Virgil, who wrote that thyme was good for treating wounds. In the Middle Ages, thyme was used to treat a variety of ailments and diseases such as coughs, colds and stomachaches.
Additional Resources
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-823/thyme
https://www.almanac.com/plant/thyme
