Thyme

Occurrence of Thyme

Common thyme (Thymus vulgaris), also known as Quendel, is a semi-shrub native to the Mediterranean region and is very popular in Mediterranean cuisine. Not least, thyme is one of the "Big Five" spices of the local culinary tradition.

Benedictine monks brought the herb to us in the medieval monastery gardens, where it already delighted Hildegard von Bingen. It was used, among other things, for deworming and in ointments. Today, the spice and medicinal plant is indispensable in home gardens and recipes, and smaller thyme plants also survive quite well on the windowsill.

You can plant common thyme both in the garden bed and in pots. It loves conditions like in its homeland – full sun, cozy warmth, and protection. The soil should be dry, loose, and nutrient-poor, with a high sand and lime content.

Effects of Thyme

Even the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans valued thyme plants for their invigorating effect. In fact, their name derives from the Greek word thymos, which means strength and courage. Greek warriors are said to have taken strengthening baths with thyme before battle – a practice still popular with us today.

In medicine, we mainly use common thyme for upper respiratory complaints, such as bronchitis and whooping cough. Essential thyme oil is used for this purpose. Otherwise, we especially love it as a spice – it is even said to be pleasant for digestion.

In the Mediterranean region, the spice is used, for example, in hearty meat dishes. The right mix of fresh vegetables must not be missing. Thyme is particularly popular because it withstands long cooking times. Other herbs quickly lose their effect and aroma when exposed to heat.

By the way, it is a wonderful source of nectar for bees. So if you want to give your garden a Mediterranean flair not only with pretty blossoms and spicy scent but also make a valuable ecological contribution, common thyme is the ideal plant – not just for beekeepers.

Ingredients of Thyme

Its essential oils as well as tannins and bitter substances are decisive. Flavonoids complete the range.

Typically, essential thyme oil can help with respiratory diseases. This is due to its possible antibacterial effect. You can also use the same anti-inflammatory effect for the skin, for example by rubbing yourself with thyme oil.

The tannins and bitter substances can mainly promote healthier digestion. Tannins can act as so-called anti-nutrients, thereby depriving harmful bacteria in the digestive system of their basis.

The intake of flavonoids (colored pigments) is generally recommended. The spectrum of effects of these substances can be very broad.

Appearance of Thyme

The evergreen semi-shrub is between ten and forty centimeters tall and wide. Over time, it becomes woody from the inside. Its gray-green leaves are small, narrow ellipses. Common thyme has a fairly long flowering period: from May to October. However, it produces most of its tiny flowers in summer, which shine in a pink to violet tone. Thyme can be harvested from April to October.

Interesting Facts about Thyme

In 2006, it was named medicinal plant of the year.

Pharaohs already loved thyme and used it, among other things, to make perfume or for embalming. The ancient Greeks used the herb to protect themselves from illness.