Thyme As Alternative Medicine

Thyme As Alternative Medicine

Thyme is known by most people as an herb in cooking but not as an alternative medicine. Ancient Greeks, Egyptians and Romans were familiar with the medicinal properties of this versatile herb. The Egyptians used thyme in their embalming and as an antiseptic for cleansing and purification. Its leaves and flowering tops are the parts used as medicine.

1. It is used to expel threadworms, hookworms and roundworms from the body.
2. It is a powerful remedy for digestive problems such as indigestion, colic, diarrhea, dyspepsia, lack of appetite, irritable bowel and gastritis.
3. It gives relief to epilepsy, menstrual and stomach cramps.
4. It is an effective treatment for respiratory tract and lung infections such as laryngitis, bronchitis, tonsillitis and coughs.
5. It is a sedative to calm depression, anxiety, nervousness, melancholy, insomnia and nightmares.
6. It is a powerful remedy for skin disorders such as bruises, thrush, cuts, deep wounds, dandruff, dental decay, athlete's foot, hair loss and tumors.
7. It alleviates nausea, rheumatic aches and headaches.
8. It is a stimulant for the thymus gland.

Thyme is available as tincture, oil, extract, tea, powder and leaves. You can also get this herb from local markets as dried or fresh leaves. It is safe and beneficial for anyone. In Jamaica a woman is given thyme tea after childbirth.

However, thyme oil must be for external use only or it may cause vomiting, dizziness or difficulties in breathing. When thyme is to be used on skin, it must be in a diluted form.

For lung problems and diarrhea an infusion is ideal. An infusion is also most effective as a gargle for sore throat. Mix same proportion of sage, red clover, rosemary with thyme for digestive disorders. To make a tea put two teaspoons of leaves and steep in a cup of boiling water for ten minutes.

Many herbalists consider thyme as a most useful herb. It is often used together with other treatments. In the Middle East there is even an herbal mixture known as Zaatar. Thyme is indeed a very useful alternative medicine that is found in our homes.