Thyme

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Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Thyme is a perennial native to the Mediterranean. It is hardy to zone

five, but is prone to disease and insect infestation in the deep south.

Southern gardeners may want to grow thyme indoors in containers so that

conditions may be carefully controlled. Most varieties grow to only six

to twelve inches in height, and they make an attractive edging for the

perennial border. Leaves are dark gray-green in color, and pale pink

flowers bloom at the tips of the stems in summer.

You can start thyme from seeds to get a wider selection of varieties.

Most nurseries carry transplants in spring and summer. It prefers a

sandy, dry soil and plenty of sun. If your soil is acidic, add some

lime. If you live in a very cold climate, protect the plants in winter

by mulching heavily. Once established, the only care will be regular

pruning of the plants and removal of dead flowers and pruning to remove

old wood.

Harvesting:

Leaves can be harvested for fresh use throughout the summer, but the

flavor is best just before flowering. To dry, cut the stems just as the

flowers start to open and hang in small bunches. Harvest sparingly the

first year.

 

Culinary Uses:

-Thyme has a strong piquant or lemony flavor. For fresh use, the flavor

is best just before flowering.

-Enhance the flavor of meat, fish and poultry dishes with thyme.

-For chicken and fish marinades, bruise fresh sprigs of thyme and

tarragon, and combine with red-wine vinegar and olive oil.

-Use in herb butters and cottage cheese.

-Culinary Oils and Vinegars

 

Medicinal Uses:

It is safe to use thyme as a seasoning during pregnancy, but strong

medicinal doses should be avoided if there is any possibility that you

are pregnant.

 

Growing and Using Thyme:

Thyme was grown in monastery gardens in southern France and in Spain and

Italy during the Middle Ages for use as a cough remedy, digestive aid

and treatment for intestinal parasites.

A solution of thyme's most active ingredient, thymol, thyme's most

active ingredient, is used in such over-the-counter products as

Listerine mouthwash and Vicks VapoRub because of its well-known

antibacterial and antifungal properties. Thymol apparently also has a

therapeutic effect on the lungs. Ingesting or inhaling the oil helps to

loosen phlegm and relax the muscles in the respiratory tract.

In Germany, concoctions of thyme are frequently prescribed for coughs,

including those resulting from whooping cough, bronchitis and emphysema.

In the United States, thyme extract was included in a popular cough

syrup, Pertussin, that is no longer on the market. Thyme is used in

herbal teas prepared for colds and flus. In addition, thyme has

antifungal properties and can be used against athlete's foot.

 

Taking thyme:

To make a tea, use two teaspoons of dried herb per cup of boiling water

and steep for ten minutes. Add sage to the tea if you have a nagging

cough. The Food and Drug Administration includes thyme on its list of

herbs generally regarded as safe, but large doses may cause intestinal

problems. If you experience diarrhea or bloating, cut back on the amount

you're using or discontinue use altogether.

A stronger tea is useful as a mouthwash or rinse to treat sore gums.

 

 

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