Perennial
Parts Used: Leaves
Thyme is an evergreen herb in the mint family, well known for its culinary uses. But this aromatic herb has many medicinal applications too.
Thyme is an expectorant — a substance that loosens mucus so you can cough it up — and a bronchial antispasmodic, relaxing the bronchial muscles.
One double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled study showed that thyme fluid extract, combined with primrose root tincture, greatly reduced symptoms and duration of acute bronchitis compared with a placebo.
Thyme is antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, relieves muscular spasms and flatulence, expels parasitic worms, and is an astringent and expectorant.
GROW
Plant in a sunny spot in free-draining soil. Thyme doesn’t like wet feet, so add pumice or horticultural grit to improve drainage if necessary.
If planting in pots, use a mix that’s low in nutrients. Rich soil encourages softer plants and diminishes flavour. Thyme planted in the garden also grows best without rich fertilisers.
An organic mulch or a little blood and bone sprinkled around each plant in spring is all that’s required.
Although drought tolerant, thyme will benefit from occasional watering in dry spells.
Take cuttings from new growth in spring or early summer when not in flower.
Creeping thymes put out aerial roots (above ground) as they spread, which makes them easy to divide in spring.
The divisions can be potted up for a few weeks or planted straight into the garden.
USE
Infuse the fresh leaves in a tea and sip to relieve coughs and sore throats. A tincture can also be made, and an infused-oil is useful for adding to salves.
SAFETY
Thyme should not be used in concentrated amounts by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, although it’s fine to use it in cooking.
Extract from The Everyday Herbalist
by Jane Wrigglesworth
Published by Allen & Unwin
RRP $49.99
