This unassuming herb,
used daily in millions of kitchens worldwide, has kept hidden in its
bitter-sweet undertones a story of a valuable medicinal fighter. But, it does not stop here as thyme has
so much more to offer than just the lovely smell in the roast chicken; it has
numerous benefits for the body and some of them have known medical benefits
while the others are-renderer to family practices. It is high time to take a
closer look at the history of using the magical plant, find out what science
says about thyme and its possible therapeutic properties.
History of Thyme
It has been used around the
world since ancient times as having medicinal properties. It was even applied
by Egyptians to preserve their mummies while Greeks and Romans employed the
product to help combat infections and respiratory issues.
Romans suggested that thyme was used in water used for bathing in order to increase courage and vigor, which can be linked to the fact that thyme was connected with the Greek goddess Artemis, who was associatedwith war.
Thyme’s evolution carried on during medieval times, its importance identified in the use of the plants in the European monasteries, often associated with the creation of herbal gardens. Coughs, wounds, and melancholy were among some conditions the plant was employed to cure. It is to be noted that the Victorians used to burn thyme to fumigate sickroom and keep diseases at bay as it had been traditionally used for cleaning.
Health Benefits of Thyme
In
light of tremendous advancements in the discovery of bioactive compounds
present in plants, this study aimed at investigating the medicinal value of
Thyme.
Today, there have been attempts
to scientifically study thyme and its uses,because it is a very versatile herb.
Here's
a glimpse into some of the potential benefits thyme offer:
- Respiratory Relief:
This is because some historical uses of thyme, such as in cases for ailments that affect the respiratory
system, have some merits.
Thymol, one of the most active ingredients of thyme oil, is believed to exert expectorant action possibly helpful in mitigating cough associated with mucus [1].
Some literature indicates that thyme may be useful in the management of bronchitis as well as whooping cough, but the full proven evidences are still scarce [2].
- Antibacterial Powerhouse:
Research studies done on the antimicrobial properties of essential oil of thyme
revealed that Thyme possesses a high antimicrobial activity. It is noted to be
effective against a number of bacterial species such as isolates from
Staphylococcus aureus a primary organism responsible for skin infections [3].
This
quality makes thyme as a natural disinfectant though further research has to be
conducted to tell the truth.
- with yeast infections [4]. More research would be needed although, the workconducted presented thyme as an essential aspect due to its
antifungal capabilities in natural
antifungal medication.
- Antioxidant Advantage: Thyme
contains oils and volatile compounds including antioxidants, these essential
nutrients help to eliminate free radicals from the body. The antioxidant
activity in this genotype of Thyme may safeguard cells and may help to prevent
diseases that originate from such regular cell damage [5].
- Skin Soother: Thyme might promote skin health
and protect the skin against inflammation and some forms of bacterial
infections. Research has proposed that it maybe used to treat acne and eczema,
however more experiments ought to be done to figure out the exact use of the
herb in treating these diseases [6].
Safety and Side Effects of Thyme
Safety and Dosage The following are Guidelines on Safety and Dosage The toxicity of antibiotics taken via mouth is low as compared to that of those taken parentrally Since the antibiotics are taken orally they are only toxic in very high concentrations To avoid Side effects ofantibiotics.
The following
guidelines should be observed Anticipated Side effects of antibiotics are as
follows Bleeding; this affects the clotting time of the blood Diarrhoea; this
is a common complaint.
While
thyme offers a range of potential health benefits, it's crucial to remember a
few things:
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: Before employing fresh or dried
thyme for health concerns, preferably if you are on a certain medication or
have health complications, seek medical advice. They must always discuss the
proper use and interaction of herbal supplements with the current treatment
regime that you use.
- Dosage Matters: The dosage of thyme to be consumed depends on
it;s form that is whether it is the fresh herb, the dried herb or the thyme
essential oil and the purpose in which it is being used for.
Take
recommended dosages as described by a doctor or other medical or ayurvedic
professional or consult from an herbal book.
- Not for Everyone: In fact, thyme may
not prove helpful to every individual out there. It is important not to use
thyme for medicinal purposes during pregnancy and breastfeeding, or as a
treatment for a particular condition or while on certain medications without
first consulting a doctor.
Uses of Thyme
It is not just the package of Thyme that is a useful product, but the plant in general and for many more reasons that are irrelevant to its use as medicine.
It is not just the package of Thyme that is a useful product, but the plant in general and for many more reasons that are irrelevant to its use as medicine.Here are some ways to incorporate thyme into your daily life:
- Culinary Companion: Despite the fact
that thyme has many uses, even in industries, the best way to experience the
benefits it tugs into the human body is through taste buds! It is used in
specially soups, stews, roasted vegetables and marinades and many more when
used in fresh form or dried one. The type has a warming, peppery flavor that
makes the meal tasty and serves as a unique way of endorsing health.
- Soothing Steam: Here’s a suggestion of how to use it: For respiratory relief, a
thyme steam inhalation is advisable. If you want to invigorate your sinsuses,
wash several fresh sprigs of thyme and place them in a bowl of hot water and
covering your head with a towel, you should breathe in the steam for several
minutes. This can assist in the following as it can help to release the mucus
or to unblock the congested areas.
- Thyme-Infused Bath: For the ultimate relaxation or to experience the asepticeffect of
the thyme additive, one can prepare a thyme bath. Drench a sprig of fresh thyme
in hot water for fifteen minutes and the water will be ready for bathwater
after straining it.
Conclusion:
Thyme as a plant full of history behind it and rich in possible healing properties can stand as indisputable evidence of the influence nature tops. It is however important to make more studies to determine the effect of thyme to act as a cure for several diseases Naturally thyme has this qualities and acts as cure to this ailments.