Key Health Benefits of Thyme

Sharon Moore March 06, 2014

Thyme is a delicate herb that is known for its penetrating fragrance. Dried or fresh, thyme is a great addition to bean, egg and vegetable dishes. Along with parsley and bay leaves, thyme is used in a French combination of herbs to season stock, stews and soups. But just like other herbs, it isn’t just good for your taste bud, but for your health as well.

Thyme has a long history in the field of natural medicine, especially in the treatment of respiratory health issues. Along with marjoram and sage, thyme is traditionally used as a gargle to relieve laryngitis, tonsillitis, clogged sinus and lung congestion. In Europe, it also used by singers to preserve their voices.

But the health benefits of thyme don’t just end there. Here are some more:

Antiseptic Properties

Thyme contains thymol which is the primary volatile oil constituent of the herb. Thymol is also a very powerful antiseptic which makes it a good natural remedy for tooth decay, mucous membranes and helps prevent bacterial growth. In fact, it is used in mouthwash products. The oil from thyme is an effective solution against bacteria that have become resistant to antibiotics, such as Staphylococcus aureus or MRSA (flesh-eating bacteria).

Antioxidant Properties

The antioxidants in thyme protect cell membranes and other cell structures from damage. In one study, thyme supplementation increased the amount of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid) in the kidney, brain, and heart cell membranes. The herb also contains a variety of flavonoids, including apigenin, naringenin, luteolin, and thymonin, which makes thyme one of the highest food sources of antioxidants.

Antimicrobial Properties

The volatile oil components of thyme have also been shown to exhibit antimicrobial properties against a host of different bacteria and fungi. Research published in the journal Food Microbiology in 2004 shows that that both thyme and basil contain constituents that can both prevent contamination, and decontaminate previously contaminated foods. In the study, thyme was able to decontaminate lettuce inoculated with Shigella, an infectious organism that triggers diarrhoea and may cause significant intestinal damage.

Nutrient-dense

Thyme is a great source of vitamin C and A, as well as iron (2.8 g of which contains 20% of the recommended iron intake for adults), manganese, and copper. These essential nutrients aid in the growth of bones and reduce the risk of bone-related diseases. Meanwhile, the dietary fibre in this herb may offer relief to those suffering from indigestion and bloating. Thyme also contains an aqueous extract that can reduce blood pressure in hypertensive situations.

Skin Health

Researchers from Leeds Metropolitan University in England found that thyme was effective at fighting the bacteria that causes skin acne. Herbs like thyme are thought to be gentler on the skin than other products because of their anti-inflammatory properties.

By adding thyme in your diet, you are not only pleasing your pallet, but also boosting your health.

What’s your favourite way to use thyme? Share your thoughts by posting a comment below.