Thyme, Red Essential Oil
Botanical Name: Thymus vulgaris
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Fresh or partially dried leaves
Note Classification: Middle
Aroma: Warm, spicy-herbaceous, powerful
Largest Producing Countries: Spain and France
Traditional Use: The oil is used in mouthwashes, gargles, toothpastes and cough lozenges.
Properties: Analgesic, anthelminthic, antifungal, anti-infectious, antimicrobial, anti-oxidant, antiputrescent, antirheumatic, antiseptic, (intestinal, pulmonary, genito-urinary), antispasmodic, antitussive, antitoxic, antivenomus, antiviral, aperitif, aphrodisiac, astringent, bactericidal, balsamic, carminative, cicatrizant, diuretic, emmenagogue, nervine, parasiticide, pectoral, revulsive, rubefacient, stimulant (immune system, circulation), sudorific, tonic, and vermifuge.
Benefits: Abscess, acne, anorexia, arthritis, asthma, balsamic, bronchitis, bruises, burns, catarrh, cellulitis, chills, colds, coughs, cuts, cystitis, dermatitis, diarrhea, dyspepsia, eczema, edema, expectorant, flatulence, flu, gout, gum infections, headaches, infectious diseases, insect bites, insomnia, gum infections, laryngitis, lice, muscular aches and pains, nervous debility and stress related conditions, obesity, oily skin, poor circulation, rheumatism, scabies, sinusitis, sore throat, sports injuries, sprains, thrush, tonsillitis, urethritis, verrucas, and warts.
Blends Well With: Bergamot, clary sage, cypress, eucalyptus (all), geranium, grapefruit, lavandin, lavender, lemon, marjoram, melissa, Peru balsam, pine, rosemary, and tea tree.
Of Interest: So important was the herb’s aroma that its name was culled from the reek thymon, meaning, “to fumigate”. On the other hand, its name has also been linked to the Greek word thumon, meaning “courage” – as the plant was associated with bravery. Indeed Roman soldiers bathed in thyme before entering a battle, and in the Middle Ages sprigs of thyme were woven into the scarves of knights departing for the Crusades. Most present-day research has centered on thyme’s ability as an antibacterial and anti-infectious agent, even when diffused in the air.
Safety Data: Do not use while pregnant or on children. Can be a mucous membrane and skin irritant.