Thyme - The Ancient Herb with Modern Healing Powers

Thyme is much more than just another herb in your spice cabinet.

This fragrant Mediterranean herb has a long history of use in medicine, food, and even spiritual rituals.

Read on to learn all about thyme, its background, health perks, culinary uses, and how to incorporate it more into your daily life.

A brief history of thyme

Thyme can be traced back thousands of years to ancient Egypt, Rome, and Greece, where it was valued as an incense, medicine, and embalming fluid thanks to its purifying effects.

Ancient soldiers bathed in thyme-infused water before battle to feel strengthened and encouraged.

Thyme is more than just a seasoning!

Health benefits of thyme  

Modern research is now confirming many of the historical medicinal uses of thyme.

According to studies, this humble herb contains potent compounds like rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, and luteolin, which exhibit intense anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiviral activity.

Some findings also show that thyme may support healthy blood pressure and improve mental clarity, mood, and brain function, though more research is still needed.

Cooking with fresh and dried thyme

This fragrant herb is easy to incorporate into your cooking routine.

Try adding fresh thyme sprigs to lend their woodsy flavor during cooking, then simply remove them before serving.

Chopped thyme leaves can be used as a finishing accent on roasted vegetables, meat, eggs, and more.

Dried thyme pairs nicely with slices of bread, baked goods, and light pasta dishes and works excellent in herb blends.

Popular dishes featuring thyme

From ancient Greece to grandma’s kitchen, thyme has long been featured in comfort food recipes spanning lentil soups, stocks, tomato sauce, onion jam, herbed potatoes, lemon chicken, and pot roast.

Next time you cook one of these favorites, add some thyme!

Bottom line 

Humble thyme deserves more credit for its versatile place in history and nutrition.

With antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties plus a flavorful punch, thyme is an easy way to boost your health and meals!

Whether enjoying this ancient herb's flavors or health factors, thyme certainly has more to offer than meets the eye.