Thyme contains powerful antiviral properties and is essential for health conditions such as Epstein-Barr virus , herpes zoster , hepatitis, influenza, herpes simplex , cytomegalovirus, human papilloma virus, and more. If taken regularly, it can significantly help reduce viral load in the body, making it extremely beneficial for people suffering from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome , Fibromyalgia , Hashimoto's Thyroiditis , Rheumatoid Arthritis , Lupus, Vertigo, Tinnitus and multiple sclerosis .
Thyme also helps stimulate memory, relieve headaches and muscle tension, soothe coughs, relieve fever, and fight colds and infections. It also contains a compound called carvacrol, which is an excellent natural tranquilizer and has a tonic effect on the entire nervous system. Thyme is a good source of pyridoxine, which is known to play an important role in the production of GABA levels in the brain, helping regulate sleep and favoring neurotransmitter function in the brain. GABA is also one of the best natural defenses against damage caused by stress.
Thyme is a great cleansing herb for the digestive tract and has been found to kill some intestinal tapeworms and roundworms and aid in the digestion of rich or fatty foods. Thyme is also essential for urinary tract health and can help prevent infections and maintain a balance of healthy bacteria. Thyme has some of the highest levels of antioxidants among herbs. It is full of bioflavonoids such as lutein, zeaxanthin and naringenin, which have a powerful effect on the elimination of free radicals and other disease-causing substances from the body.
You can find fresh thyme under green spices in large hypermarkets. In addition, thyme is an extremely easy herb to grow and can be grown both in larger pots and in home gardens.
Thyme tea is a powerful medicinal drink and can be made by steeping fresh thyme leaves in hot water and letting them steep for 15-20 minutes.
How to make thyme tea?
Ingredients:
- 2 sprigs of fresh thyme;
- 0.8 - 1 liter of hot water;
- optional: fresh lemon and/or raw honey.
Method of preparation:
Place fresh thyme in a cup and pour hot water over the herb, letting it steep for 15 minutes or more. Remove thyme sprigs or strain. Sweeten with raw honey and/or lemon. Sip and enjoy!
How to make thyme water?
Ingredients:
- 2 whole bunches of fresh thyme sprigs;
- 1-2 liters of filtered or spring water;
- optional: fresh lemon, raw honey, berries, cucumber slices, mint, etc.
Method of preparation:
Fill a jug with room temperature water and add the thyme sprigs. Let it soak on the kitchen counter overnight. In the morning, remove/strain the thyme sprigs and add lemon or raw honey or other ingredients of choice. Sip water throughout the day to hydrate and reap the healing benefits.
Frequently asked questions about thyme tea and water
Can I use dried thyme?
It is important to use fresh thyme to fully enjoy its medicinal benefits.
I usually use boiling water for tea. Is that a problem?
It is best to let the water cool a little before pouring over the delicate thyme leaves.
Can I reuse thyme leaves?
Yes, but the first batch will be the most useful.
Can I drink this every day?
Yes you can, as you can drink it throughout the day.
Is thyme water more hydrating than thyme tea?
Yes, thyme water is more hydrating because it is not heated, but thyme tea also has many healing properties.
Is it better to drink before or after a meal?
You can consume it at any time.
Can I drink them while pregnant?
Yes, they are safe during pregnancy.
Can I use thyme essential oil instead of fresh thyme?
No, thyme essential oil does not have the same therapeutic benefits. It is best to use fresh thyme.
Can they be drunk while breastfeeding?
Yes, they are safe and healing for both mother and baby.
How long can I keep thyme water in a jug before I need to make another batch?
You can store it for 2-3 days in the refrigerator.
Can I use more thyme than the recipe calls for?
Yes, you can use as much thyme as you like.
Can I use less thyme than the recipe calls for?
Yes, you can, but it won't be as healing.
