Ways to prepare Thyme

You can make a tea out of Thyme, by steeping 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, or 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes. Make sure to strain out the herb. Drink up to 3 times daily if needed.

A gargle for sore throat or tonsilitis can be used from cool thyme tea.

For the bath add a handful of dried leaves to hot bathwater.

Medicinal Uses of Thyme

I found the following information interesting. I am always amazed by the healing power of herbs, which is just a plus for all the rest they can bring to our lives. As always, consult your own physician first.

Thyme contains thymol, which can increase blood flow to the skin. You can add thyme leaves to bathwater to help with stiff, tense, muscles. It has been found to help with a sprain or bruising as well. In general, it can help with muscle spasms and rheumatic pains.

Thyme leaves can be used as a digestive aid, and a cough remedy especially with cases of bronchitis. It can soothe a sore throat. It also contains antioxidants, which some believe slow down the aging process and development of disease.

Growing Thyme in the garden

Once danger of frost is past in your area, sow thyme seeds outdoors in a sunny location. I have grown thyme in pots before, and it does well. You will want well drained soil. For an earlier harvest, plant seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost date in your area.

To harvest thyme leaves, just take as needed, or cut the flowering tops in the summer, for drying.

Seeds will germinate in 7-14 days. Plant the seeds about 1/4 inch deep, and space them about 8 inches apart. They will grow to about 12-18 inches, and are a perennial.

Different Uses for Thyme

Culinary Use:
Thyme can be used in all kinds of Mediterranean style recipes. It is great to flavor vegetables, soups, stews, stuffing, fish and beef, chicken, etc.

Garden use:
Great in the herb garden, Thyme is a spreading plant covered with aromatic grey-green foliage. Lilac colored flowers bloom late spring and early summer. Makes a great low hedge, or edging plant. It is excellent as a fragrant ground cover. It is hardy in zones 4-10.

Other Uses for Thyme:
Thyme has been known to be added to water, ammonia or alcohol to make a cleaning solution. (for the home) Add fresh or dried leaves.