This plant destroys strep throat, the flu virus and fights respiratory infections

Thyme, from the mint family, originally comes from the Mediterranean.

Christine Ruggeri, a holistic health expert, says the ancient Egyptians used thyme for healing and embalming, while Greeks used it in baths and temples to inspire courage. In medieval Europe, thyme was placed under pillows to aid sleep and used at funerals to ensure safe passage.

The name “thyme” comes from the Greek word “thymos,” meaning “to perfume.”

There are over 300 thyme varieties, each with different essential oils like thymol and carvacrol. The plant’s growing location affects its oil composition. For beginners, Thymus vulgaris ct linalool is best—gentle and safe for all ages.

Other common types include thymol, carvacrol, and thujanol varieties.

Thyme Chemotypes and Benefits:

Thymol (60-70%): Strong antiseptic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and pain relief.
Linalool: Mild, antifungal, antiparasitic; found at high altitudes.
Carvacrol (30-80%): Powerful anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant.
1,8-Cineole (80-90%): Expectorant, diuretic, pain reliever.
Thujanol (~50%): Immune system support.

Overall Thyme Oil: Antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, diuretic, antiseptic, antispasmodic; detoxifies, boosts immunity, kills microbes, promotes white blood cell production.

Health benefits of thyme include:

Stimulates blood circulation to speed healing
Enhances memory and focus
Raises blood pressure
Antibacterial action against staphylococcus and others
Cleanses air from harmful bacteria (proteus, streptococci, cryptococci)
Fights respiratory illnesses: coughs, colds, flu, bronchitis, sore throat, asthma, laryngitis
Relieves physical and mental exhaustion: helps chronic fatigue, depression, insomnia, recovery
Essential oil encourages mucus secretion and soothes dry coughs