The herb has antiseptic and anti-fungal properties. It also provides relief from chest and respiratory problems including cough, bronchitis and congestion
Thyme originated from Southern Europe and is classified in the same plant family as mint. It is one of the most widely used herbs. There are believed to be about 350 species in the genus thymus, with common thyme and lemon thyme widely used in Western cooking.
Depending on how it is used in a dish, the whole sprig may be used or the leaves removed and the stems discarded. leaves should be removed from stems either by scraping with the back of a knife or by pulling through the fingers or tines of a fork. Thyme contains many active principles that are found to have disease preventing and health promoting properties.
The herb contains thymol, one of the important essential oils. Thymol has been found scientifically to have antiseptic and anti-fungal characteristics. The other volatile oils in thyme include carvacolo, borneol and geraniol.
Thyme is packed with minerals and vitamins that are essential for optimum health. Its leaves are one of the richest sources of potassium, iron, calcium, manganese, magnesium, and selenium.
It is also a rich source of many important vitamins such as B-complex vitamins, beta carotene, Vitamin A, K, E, C and folic acid.
Thyme provides 0.35 mg of Vitamin B-6 or pyridoxine, furnishing about 27 per cent of daily recommended intake.
Whenever possible, choose fresh thyme over the dried form since it is superior in flavour. The leaves of fresh thyme should look fresh and be a vibrant green-gray in colour and free from dark spots or yellowing.
Fresh thyme should be stored in the refrigerator wrapped in a slightly damp paper towel. Dried thyme should be kept in a tightly sealed glass container in a cool, dark and dry place where it will keep fresh for about six months.
In ancient Greece, thyme was widely used for its aromatic qualities, being burned as incense in sacred temples. Thyme was also a symbol of courage and admiration with the phrase “the smell of thyme” being a saying that reflected praise unto its subject.