Thyme is a popular herb used worldwide, the oil produced from thmye is used as a medicine.
Thyme Oil has been used for centuries for respiratory and digestive problems. It is one of the oldest plants on record and is best known for its antiseptic properties, Listerine is said to be the first antiseptic solution contained thymol, which is derived from thyme oil.
Thyme oil contains antifungal, antiviral, antiparasitic, antimicrobial, antiseptic and anti-aging, diuretic, emenagogue, expectorant, hypertensive, insecticide, stimulant, tonic and vermifuge properties that are essential for overall health.
Thyme was used thousands of years ago in Egypt for embalming and in Greece; it was used as incense in temples and was sometimes added to bath water.
The compound thymol, derived from thyme oil, is one of the strongest antiseptics known to man and have been used as an ingredient in gargles, mouthwashes, cough drops, and vapor chest balms. Some of the best-known products that contain thymol are Listerine mouthwash and Vicks VapoRub.
In addition to thymol, thyme contains the flavonoid luteolin, apigenin, thymonin and naringenin that are powerful antioxidants.
Thyme oil is commonly used all over the world for the treatment of bedwetting, diarrhea, stomachache, arthritis, colic, sore throat, cough (including whooping cough), bronchitis, flatulence and as a diuretic to increase urination and prevents infections.
It is also applied to the scalp to treat baldness and to the ears to fight bacterial and fungal infections.
Thymol, one of the chemicals in thyme, is used with another chemical, chlorhexidine, as a dental varnish to prevent tooth decay.
Thyme oil is used to treat acne and is also found as an ingredient in acne care products, it lowers hypertension, prevents various cancers like breast and colon cancer, treats or prevents yeast infections and premature aging.
Thyme oil stimulates blood flow to the tissues. It helps to heal bruises, sprains, and other injuries. Thyme oil is used in the treatments of the respiratory system, the immune system, and as an aid to digestion.
It is also a good home remedy when treating gout, rheumatism, wounds, sores, water retention, menstrual problems, menopausal symptoms, bad breath, body odor, fatigue, nausea, depression, colic, gas, scar tissue, oily skin, colds, poor circulation, sore throat, sinusitis, anorexia, cellulite, eczema, athlete’s foot, dermatitis, insect bites, stings, and laryngitis.
Thyme oil should not be used in cases of high blood pressure and during pregnancy.
All oils should be kept away from the eyes if contact do occurs, wash the eyes thoroughly with water. Do not take oils internally without consulting a qualified professional.
Always dilute essential oils with good carrier oil and test on small area of skin before use and always consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedy especially if pregnant, nursing, or taking other medicines.