Thyme (Thymus Vulgaris)
Thyme may be grown from seed for mass plantings. Thyme makes an excellent low growing hedge to 15cm. Wonderful for gardens, in the vegetable or ornamental garden. The rich fragrance is released into the surrounding air with the heat of the sun, creating a purifying effect upon the plants growing in the nearby vicinity. Plants grown in the same area will be healthier and stronger and bees which love this plant will aid the pollination of fruiting and flowering plants. An excellent plant for apiaries, being a good source of medicine to remove certain hive infections. Pretty, fragrant, ornamental and a powerful medicinal herb.
Thyme in the garden requires full sun, acute drainage, an alkaline soil and as much heat as you can give it. Thymes like to bake in the sun, they do not like competition from weeds.
Trim approximately 1/3 during summer and a further 1/3 about mid-autumn. Dry the trimmings in a hot water cupboard for winter use. Regular trimming of Thyme produces stronger and more flavourful plants. The medicinal properties are best found in “Thymus Vulgaris” although over 400 varieties of Thyme exist.
A very powerful antiseptic herb, more effective as a germicide than carbolic acid, but without any danger. A tea produced from the leaves, flowers and stems is especially good for streptococcal throat infections, may also be used as a mouthwash and gargle. The tea taken internally, is beneficial to the spleen, chest infections, coughs, stomach cramps, irritable bowel and internal parasites. The same tea may be used as an antimicrobial and antiseptic cleaning agent in any area of the home.
The essential oil will kill fungal infections when applied neat or diluted in water, for its antibiotic wound healing abilities and applied to insect bites. Add 5 – 6 drops to the bath for arthritic pain and general body weakness. Add to a carrier oil like Sweet Almond or Sesame for chest infections or for rheumatic pain relief. 10 drops to 25mls cold pressed oil. An immune system stimulant.
Note: Do not use Thyme essential oil during pregnancy as it may stimulate the uterus.
