Description:
The
essential oil of common thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is made up of 20-55% thymol.
Thymol, an
antiseptic.
Before the advent of modern antibiotics, it was used to medicate bandages. It has also been shown to be effective against the fungus that commonly infects toenails.
Medicinally thyme is used for
respiratory infections in the form of a
tincture, tisane, salve, syrup or by steam inhalation. Because it is
antiseptic, thyme boiled in water and cooled is very effective against
inflammation of the throat when gargled 3 times a day.
Other infections and
wounds can be dripped with thyme that has been boiled in water and cooled.
Cultivation:
Thyme is best cultivated in a hot sunny location with well drained soil. It is generally planted in the spring and thereafter grows as a perennial. It can be propagated by seed, cuttings, or by dividing rooted sections of the plant. It tolerates drought well
Plant info:
Lamiaceae
Plant Longevity:
Perennial
Tags: herbs, alternative medicine, Thyme, Thymus vulgaris,
