Thymus vulgaris (thyme) is a culinary spice and has medicinal properties. Thyme belongs to the Lamiaceae or mint family, and this explains its distinctive aroma. Thyme contains an aromatic essential oil that can be extracted and used therapeutically for a number of disorders because of its anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and antioxidant activities. The essential oil in thyme contains carvacrol, p-cymene, thymol, and γ-terpinene amongst others, with thymol representing 10-64 % of the total oil. Thymol may be responsible for many of the therapeutic effects of thyme as evidence shows it has particular effects on animals and humans. One use for thymol might be the treatment of mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. Because of its antioxidant capacity, thyme essential oil is also an effective preservative for food. Incorporating thyme into the diet as a food ingredient therefore may significantly improve health and well being.
Eat Well, Stay Healthy, Protect Yourself
RdB
