Thyme, Red Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Thymus vulgaris
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Fresh or partially dried leaves
Note Classification: Middle
Aroma: Warm, spicy-herbaceous, powerful
Largest Producing Countries: Spain and France

Traditional Use: The oil is used in mouthwashes, gargles, toothpastes and cough lozenges.

Properties: Analgesic, anthelminthic, antifungal, anti-infectious, antimicrobial, anti-oxidant, antiputrescent, antirheumatic, antiseptic, (intestinal, pulmonary, genito-urinary), antispasmodic, antitussive, antitoxic, antivenomus, antiviral, aperitif, aphrodisiac, astringent, bactericidal, balsamic, carminative, cicatrizant, diuretic, emmenagogue, nervine, parasiticide, pectoral, revulsive, rubefacient, stimulant (immune system, circulation), sudorific, tonic, and vermifuge.

Benefits: Abscess, acne, anorexia, arthritis, asthma, balsamic, bronchitis, bruises, burns, catarrh, cellulitis, chills, colds, coughs, cuts, cystitis, dermatitis, diarrhea, dyspepsia, eczema, edema, expectorant, flatulence, flu, gout, gum infections, headaches, infectious diseases, insect bites, insomnia, gum infections, laryngitis, lice, muscular aches and pains, nervous debility and stress related conditions, obesity, oily skin, poor circulation, rheumatism, scabies, sinusitis, sore throat, sports injuries, sprains, thrush, tonsillitis, urethritis, verrucas, and warts.

Blends Well With: Bergamot, clary sage, cypress, eucalyptus (all), geranium, grapefruit, lavandin, lavender, lemon, marjoram, melissa, Peru balsam, pine, rosemary, and tea tree.

Of Interest: So important was the herb’s aroma that its name was culled from the reek thymon, meaning, “to fumigate”.   On the other hand, its name has also been linked to the Greek word thumon, meaning “courage” – as the plant was associated with bravery.  Indeed Roman soldiers bathed in thyme before entering a battle, and in the Middle Ages sprigs of thyme were woven into the scarves of knights departing for the Crusades.  Most present-day research has centered on thyme’s ability as an antibacterial and anti-infectious agent, even when diffused in the air.

Safety Data: Do not use while pregnant or on children. Can be a mucous membrane and skin irritant.

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Disclaimer:
This information is for educational purposes only, it is not intended to treat, cure, prevent or, diagnose any disease or condition. Nor is it intended to prescribe in any way. This information is for educational purposes only and may not be complete, nor may its data be accurate.

As with all essential oils, never use them undiluted. Do not take internally unless working with a qualified and expert practitioner. Keep away from children. If applying an essential oil to your skin always perform a small patch test to an insensitive part of the body (after you have properly diluted the oil in an appropriate carrier).