Thyme: benefits & Side effects

Thyme is a herb belonging to the mint family, characterized by a strong smell and sharp flavor. It is not just a type of spice, as it has many uses that will be discussed in this article. It is more than simply a spice, since it has a variety of uses that will be covered in this article. Because it contains antioxidants, the ancient Egyptians employed it in mummification, while the Greeks used it as incense and  also used as a natural antibiotic. studies have shown that thyme is able to kill ninety-eight percent of cancer cells, heal acne, high blood pressure, reduce respiratory problems, support the immune system, protect it from chronic diseases, stimulate blood flow and relieve stress.

Nutritional benefits of thyme

Thyme contains many important vitamins and minerals such as B-complex vitamins, beta-carotene, vitamin C, K, A, folic acid, iron, manganese, copper, and dietary fiber, and these elements are of great importance in supporting human health and immune system. Fresh thyme is considered Of the antioxidants, it is rich in  potassium, which is important for heart health, and which works to regulate heart rate and blood pressure .

Health benefits of thyme

• Antifungal, its thymol makes it an effective remedy for preventing fungal and viral infections.
• Maintains the health of the heart, as it is a rich mixture of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins such as potassium and manganese, and works to prevent atherosclerosis, and avoid strokes, heart attacks, and coronary artery diseases.
• t improves the ability to see, as it contains vitamin A, which is important for the health of the eyes
• Stimulates the production of red blood cells, due to the high concentration of iron and other minerals in it, and helps to increase the percentage of oxygen in the body.
• Supports the immune system, it contains a high percentage of vitamin C, which supports the production of white blood cells, and is involved in the production of collagen important in the creation and repair of cells, muscles, and blood vessels.
• Reduces stress, it contains vitamin B6, which is based on strengthening the neurons associated with stress hormones in the brain, and helps to adjust the mood by relieving thoughts that tire the mind.
• Treats respiratory diseases: such as bronchitis, chronic asthma, sore throat, colds, influenza, sinusitis, and seasonal allergies.
• Treats cough: It is prescribed to people who suffer from persistent and severe cough

side effects of thyme

It is worth saying that people who are allergic to oregano or other plants belonging to the Lamiaceae family may also be allergic to wild thyme.

How to use thyme

The thyme plant has many uses in the kitchen, for example; The whole plant can be used as a kind of spice, in addition to the possibility of using its essential oil to season baked goods, and some drinks, and its raw leaves can be added to salad dishes, or to some cooked dishes to add flavor, and if the leaves are dried; Aromatic tea   can be prepared from it.

Thyme for cough

Thyme fights respiratory infections and is a natural expectorant that acts as an antiseptic and aids in the removal of mucus. It can also be used to treat coughs and nasal congestion. Thyme aids in cough relief by relaxing the muscles involved in coughing, thins mucus, making it easier to expel, and reduces inflammation in the airways (bronchitis)

The benefits of thyme tea

• It may have antibacterial, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties
  The components in a warm cup of thyme tea are thought to help protect the body from germs. Several studies have found that thyme tea has antibacterial activity against bacteria like E. coli, salmonella, and staphylococcus aureus, as well as candida albicans yeast.
• It contains a chemical that helps to relax the nervous system.
  Are you anxious? A cup of thyme tea may also be beneficial in this regard. Thyme contains a chemical called carvacrol, which helps produce positive effects on the nervous system. Add it to your pre-bedtime routine or sip it at work during stressful times.
• It is rich in vitamins and minerals.
  Antioxidants aren’t the only helpful substances found in the small leaves of thyme. The plant also provides critical vitamins and minerals. Fresh thyme provides vitamins A and C, copper, fibre, iron, and manganese, all of which can be found in tea to some extent.

Thyme essential oil benefits

• Combat respiratory issues
  Thyme Essential Oil acts to clear congestion and destroy infections in the chest to help you breathe more easily, whether you have a typical cold, a cough, flu, or bronchitis.
• Stimulate circulation
  Thyme Essential Oil includes stimulants that promote blood circulation.
• Reduce anxiety and stress
  Thyme Essential Oil can help to ease stress and anxiety by relaxing the body and opening up the lungs, veins, and mind.
• Antiseptic
  Thyme Essential Oil fights infections both inside the body and on the skin thanks to its antibacterial components, such as caryophyllene and camphene.
• Cleanse the skin
  The calming qualities of thyme essential oil are well known. Thyme oil helps to treat inflammation, acne, and other skin issues that cause irritation, thereby promoting healthy-looking skin.

Read also: Benefits of Aloe Vera for hair and skin