What is it
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is a small herbaceous plant widespread in temperate climate regions and is known as a condiment, often used in cooking by virtue of its flavoring qualities.
Thyme, from the Greek “to perfume” is also traditionally used as a remedy to treat wounds in the form of decoction in olive oil.
Activities
Thyme essential oil contains various substances, especially phenols and in particular thymol and carvacrol, which have antibacterial activity especially against the main germs responsible for respiratory tract diseases.
If you want to deepen this topic read the article Sore throat: here are the natural remedies.
When applied to infected skin, it also has an antifungal action.
In addition to the antiseptic effects, thyme exerts a powerful antioxidant and anti-free radical action, thanks to the content of polyunsaturated flavonoids.
In addition, it is able to maintain optimal concentrations of fatty acids, important and beneficial constituents of cell membranes, which tend to shrink with advancing age.
Why is it used
Thyme is therefore indicated as a local antiseptic, sometimes even against germs that have become resistant to common antibiotics.
It is useful in colds, infections of the upper airways, skin mycoses, such as candida and skin diseases such as acne.
How to use it
A widespread phytotherapeutic form is the dry extract titrated in essential oil, minimum 1.2%, and in volatile phenols expressed in thymol minimum 5%.
The daily dose is about 8-10 mg per kilogram of body weight, divided into two or three intakes, preferably between meals.
Against fungal skin diseases, essential oil applied topically is used.
Effects
Excessive consumption can cause nausea, vomiting, bradycardia, asthenia, difficulty breathing and decreased body temperature. These symptoms regress upon discontinuation of therapy.
In addition, allergic skin reactions, similar to urticaria, have been observed in sensitive patients.
Precautions
The use of thyme and derivatives during pregnancy and lactation is not recommended. Children over 10 years of age can take thyme-based herbal medicines.
Thyme essential oil should only be used on prescription because it is particularly irritating to the skin and mucous membranes.
It should not be taken pure and is contraindicated in cases of hypothyroidism or antithyroid therapy as it interferes with thyroid function.
Interactions
There are no known interactions with drugs or other herbal medicines.
Joycelyn Elders is the author and creator of EmpowerEssence, a health and wellness blog. Elders is a respected public health advocate and pediatrician dedicated to promoting general health and well-being.
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