Thyme is not only an aromatic spice that makes our food taste better, it is also a versatile herb that has many health benefits.
Soothes coughs
Thyme tea is very useful if you have an upper respiratory illness. Its leaves contain a substance called thymol, which has a mycostatic effect and can even help prevent cancer. Brew a tea with two teaspoons of the leaves, leave for 15 minutes, strain and drink 2-3 times a day.
Fungicidal
Thyme is an effective fungicide against many fungal diseases and can even increase the effectiveness of antifungal agents. According to a US study, it may also be able to kill strains of candida fungi that are resistant to drug treatments.
Relieves back pain
Thyme’s natural essential oils can relieve spasmodic back pain, and drinking thyme tea can help with headaches. You can also soak a towel in a thyme decoction to cover aching muscles.
Can help treat cancer
A study published in the journal BMC Research Notes suggests that a combination of thyme and oregano may be able to kill leukaemia cells, which is why the plant – strictly as an adjunct to medical therapy – may be a natural treatment for cancer.
How to use it
Thyme can be made into a tea or a decoction, but it is also available as an essential oil. You can grow it in your kitchen window, but it is also available in dried form. It’s a great accompaniment to beans and mushrooms, chicken, some Italian and French dishes, but you can also add it to soups and salad dressings.
