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THYME (THYMUS)

Perennial. The plant used to be called Thymon, from the ancient Greek "thyein", meaning to make a burnt offering. Name may also come from the Greek thymos or thyos = incense, because of its scent. Earliest recorded use of Thyme is 3000 BC in Sumeria, where it was used as an antiseptic. Was once used in embalming procedures by ancient Egyptians. Indeed, Thyme symbolised death because it was believed that dead souls rested in its aromatic flowers. It was used as incense in temples and added to drinks to provide courage. It is also a good strewing herb for getting rid of moths. The Romans used Thyme to ease bloatedness after eating too much. They would also bathe in Thyme-scented water before going into battle to give them strength and courage. In ancient Athens, honey from Thyme was considered the best. Plant has also been considered an aphrodisiac. Christian legend says that the baby Jesus slept on a bed of Thyme.

Thyme was a favourite fairy plant which could make them invisible to humans. In Wales, it was often planted on graves. To find out who you will marry, place a sprig of Thyme in one shoe and Rosemary in the other on St Agnes Eve. Thyme used to be brought indoors after a death and kept there until after the funeral. It is also believed that Thyme-stuffed pillows will prevent nightmares. If a child touches Thyme when first he/she goes into the garden, they will be blessed.

Add to soups, stews, stuffing, vegetables. Thyme oils are used as antiseptics. An infusion of leaves helps coughs, colds and bronchitis. It can also be used as a gargle for sore throats and ulcers. Two tablespoons of Thyme in boiling water and inhaling the vapours will help a blocked nose. Thyme ointment for spots and pimples. A cup of hot, sweetened Thyme tea taken last thing at night will promote sleep, allegedly. In homeopathy, Thyme is used for asthma and whooping cough. In Asia it is used for toothache, diarrhoea and itching and vomiting.

Place sprigs of Thyme on your closed eyes at night, whilst sleeping on a fairy mound, in order to see fairies. Sprinkle Thyme on doorsteps and windowsills to invite fairies in. in the Middle Ages, sprigs of Thyme were embroidered on the scarves of knights for bravery. Thyme was burnt as incense at ancient funerals and placed in the coffin of the dead in order that the soul would live in the flowers, and assuring passage to the afterlife.

Thyme (particularly vulgaris) is also a good deterrent for cabbage white butterflies, slugs and flea beetles. Thyme tops yield a purple dye. The plant also yields grey, gold and yellow dyes.

To make a Thyme disinfectant, simmer leaves and small stems for 30 minutes. Strain and use. Thyme is best picked when in flower but can take a while to dry because its foliage is tough to prevent excessive water loss during hot weather.

Plant in a good sunny position with good drainage in spring. Could be grown as stepping stones. Trim Thymes after flowering to encourage bushiness. Food plant of caterpillars of the following moths - Thyme Pug, Satyr Pug and Lace Border. Butterflies - Wall Brown, Dingy Skipper, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Chalkhill Blue, Grayling, Adonis and Small Copper.

*This sheet is provided for information only and is in no way a prescription for use. Please seek the advice of a qualified herbalist before using*

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