Thyme

Thyme (/taɪm/) is an aromatic perennial evergreen herb with culinary, medicinal, and ornamental uses. The most common variety is Thymus vulgaris. Thyme is of the genus Thymus of the mint family (Lamiaceae), and a relative of the oregano genus Origanum.

The interesting health benefits of thyme include its ability to relieve stress, reduce respiratory issues, improve heart health, boost the strength of the immune system, protect against chronic diseases, stimulate blood flow, and prevent fungal infections.

Thyme is an herb used in cooking and for its potential health benefits. It may have antimicrobial, anticancer, and antifungal characteristics.

Learn more about thyme nutrition facts, health benefits, healthy recipes, and other fun facts to enrich your diet.

Thyme isn’t just one of the most popular culinary herbs today — it also has a long, long history of use as a medicinal healer and protector.

Thyme herb (Thymus vulgaris) is a traditional Mediterranean culinary herb. It contains an impressive list of nutrients, essential oils like thymol, vitamins, and antioxidants.

An aromatic herb in the mint family, thyme grows to a height of fifteen inches (about 40 cm), with small rounded leaves and pink flowers on woody stems. This herb is not the same species as mother of thyme of wild thyme. Today the plant is common throughout North America, but it originated in the southern Mediterranean. Experts in language tell us that thyme's name was derived form the Greek word thumus, or courage. In Medieval times, knights wore sprigs of thyme on their armor as a sign of courage. The scent of thyme was thought to give them strength in the midst of battle. Parts Used Fresh or dried sprigs or leaves. Typical Preparations Teas, tinctures, baths, gargles, toothpaste. Summary The fragrance and flavor of thyme leaves have long been a favorite of cooks for seasoning meats, soups, and stews. Thyme is especially common in Mediterranean and French cuisine, and is an ingredient in the seasoning blend herbs de Provence.

Thyme's distinctive taste has made it a culinary staple. Now it's gaining a reputation for its medicinal qualities, such as for treating acne.

WebMD

Thyme is one of the most widely used and versatile herbs in the culinary arts. It pairs well with lamb, poultry, tomatoes and lemon.

Learn about thyme in the Kitchen Dictionary - Genius Kitchen: Talk with your mouth full

Thyme has a piney and peppery taste with bitter, slightly lemony and minty notes.

Botanical, folk-lore and herbal information - Thyme, Garden.