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Thyme
Botanical Name:
Thymus vulgaris
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| Origins |
The ancient Egyptians incorporated the
essential oil of thyme into their embalming fluids. The Greeks drank
a herbal infusion of the leaves after banquests to aid digestion.
Culpeper considered it a great lung strengthener and a remedy for
shortness of breath. |
| Description |
This common low-growing
wild herb has dark green leaves, woody stalks and small pink
flowers. It is cultivated throughout the Mediterranean,
Algeria,Yugoslavia and in Egypt for culinary and pharmaceutical
uses. The oil is extracted from the whole flowering herb by
steam-distillation and has a pungent, sweet herbaceous smell. It is
an important component in colognes and herbal
perfumes.
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| Therapeutic effects |
Helps fatigue and anxiety,
but best known as a natural antiseptic for treating coughs and
infections of the respiratory tract. Good too for rheumatic aches
and for skin problems such as sores and swellings.
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| Uses |
Massage and baths. When
added to a bath, its invigorating effects help revive tired muscles.
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| * This image is 'eye candy' it does not represent the actual plant. |