Thyme, or thyme. Medicinal herbs: thyme

Description of thyme can be found in any botanical encyclopedia. This herb is widely known for its medicinal properties and culinary uses. Tea with thyme is healthy and very tasty. It's easy to prepare. And he gives a lot: a charge of strength, calmness, reducing the impact of stress. About growing thyme and caring for the plant on personal plot can be found on this page. Further in the material, a description of thyme is proposed, accompanied by a large number of illustrations. You will learn why thyme and thyme are one and the same, and how the herb can be used in traditional medicine and cooking. Growing thyme in the garden and caring for it are not particularly difficult even for a novice gardener. Timely weeding, cutting and application organic fertilizers These are the basic principles of agricultural technology.

Thyme and thyme are the same thing (with photo)

Family Lamiaceae (Lamiaceae).

Thyme and thyme are an extensive genus of plants from the Lamiaceae family, numbering several hundred species that grow almost throughout Eurasia, in North Africa, North America, in the Caucasus, in some regions of Western and Eastern Siberia, in the Canary Islands and even in Greenland. Their center of origin is the Mediterranean.

It is found in the European part of Russia and in Siberia. It grows in elevated areas with dry, well-drained soils, on rocks, in stony steppes, in steppe meadows.

There are several versions of the origin of the generic name "thymus". According to one, it comes from the word "thymos", which means "strength", "courage". According to another version, as Carl Linnaeus points out in his "Philosophy of Botany", this name was given by the ancient Greeks for the healing effect of the plant - "breath of life", "spirit".

According to the third version, the generic name is associated with the word "thyo" - "to make sacrifices", since creeping thyme is the oldest cult plant, and many peoples used to burn it in temples and on altars to get a fragrant smoke (incense).

In Russia, creeping thyme is often called Bogorodskaya or Bogorodichnaya herb. This is due to the custom on the day of the Dormition of the Mother of God to decorate her icons with fragrant bunches of thyme.

Almost all thymes are fragrant low shrubs, often with recumbent woody stems and herbaceous flowering shoots. The most famous are two of them - common thyme with erect stems and creeping thyme, or bogorodskaya grass.

The fact that thyme and thyme are the same can be seen in the photo, which shows plant samples in different phases of vegetative development:

Description of the thyme plant (with photo)

Let's start the description of the thyme plant with the fact that it is a perennial evergreen shrub that grows up to 20 cm in height, with a branched stem that creeps along the ground and erect flower-bearing branches. Root taproot, branched. The stem is erect or ascending, woody in the lower part, strongly branched, up to 30–40 cm high.

The leaves are small (5–10 mm long), short-petiolate, opposite, with inwardly curved edges, dotted with dotted essential oil glands on both sides, leathery, dark green above, grayish green below, elliptical and entire.

The color of flowers in different species and varieties of thyme can be white, pink, red, purple. Small flowers are collected in axillary false whorls, forming a discontinuous capitate inflorescence on ascending shoots up to 15 cm high. The fruit consists of four nuts enclosed in the remaining calyx.

Nuts 0.7–0.9 mm in diameter, almost round, grayish or brownish brown. The weight of 1000 seeds is 0.3 g.

Look at the thyme plant in the photo, which shows the different stages of its development:

Types of thyme (with photo)

Flea thyme ( Thymus pulegioides) is a slightly branched plant up to 30 cm high, partially woody stems of which are covered with small rounded leaves. Flowering stems are erect, pubescent, tetrahedral. These types of thyme bloom in mid-summer with lilac-pink flowers that form compact capitate inflorescences.

Mediterranean Thyme Marshall ( Thymus marshallianus) , from the end of spring, until the end of summer, blooms with pink-purple flowers in elongated spike-shaped inflorescences. Linear leaves cover stems 20–40 cm high. The species prefers calcareous soil.

Flowering stems of early creeping thyme ( Thymus praecox) slightly pubescent and covered with leaves, the size of which gradually increases from the base to the top of the stem. Flowers - bright purple, in capitate inflorescences; bloom in late spring. Plant height - 2-15 cm.

Creeping thyme – T hymus serpillum. The height of the “rug” of thyme is 2–8 cm. Thyme blooms profusely from May to July, less actively until autumn, sometimes it blooms again. Flowers are pink, purple, white. Thyme is the main plant of the "spicy" slide. Refers to spicy and medicinal herbs, has extremely fragrant leaves and flowers. It is used as a seasoning for meat dishes, in sauces, added to tea. The use of this plant in medicine is also diverse. Thyme is especially popular as a cough remedy.

AT last years many varieties and hybrids of thyme have been obtained with different colors and shades of leaves (green, variegated):

Green-white, green-yellow

And flowers:

"Pink Chintz" - pink

"Albus" or "Alba" - white

"Donne Valley" - light purple

"Coccineus" - red and etc.

Dwarf undersized variety " Aelphin» only 3-5 cm high, forms a dense, compact cushion with a diameter of 10-15 cm. Combining colors, you can get unusually effective pictures.

Look at the types of thyme in the photo, which shows the distinctive features:

Growing thyme from seeds: care and suitable conditions

Thyme is a plant that is quite popular among flower growers specializing in creating rocky gardens. Bushy thymes are usually planted in small groups among stones, creeping species- along the edge of the terraces, over large boulders and between the stone slabs of garden paths.

When choosing suitable growing conditions for thyme, you need to know that this plant prefers a sunny or slightly shaded place with light, well-drained soil, preferably sandy.

Grow it on the lungs fertile soils ah, and better through seedlings. Areas with high standing heavy clay soil completely unsuitable for them, plants suffer from prolonged stagnant moisture. The best precursors for thyme in the garden are cabbage, potatoes, cucumbers and onions.

The plant easily tolerates drought and prefers slightly moderate watering.

Thyme does not tolerate severe frosts.

Thyme care consists in thorough cleaning of weeds, loosening the soil between rows and top dressing. mineral fertilizers. For seed purposes, thyme is harvested from the second year of vegetation. The crop is harvested in the phase of mass flowering, starting from the second year of life, in dry weather.

The first cutting of the aboveground mass is carried out in June, the second in September - October.

You can plant thyme for growing from seeds at any time - the plants are unpretentious and drought-resistant, but not late autumn, as the plants should take root well before frost. Plants do not need to be fertilized best case you can add a little ripe compost or horn flour to the soil. If thyme bushes are trimmed regularly, they will be dense and compact. Do it in early spring or after flowering. The shoots are shortened by about two-thirds - to the lignified part.

Reproduction of thyme

Reproduction of thyme is possible by seeds, cuttings and dividing the bush. Thyme is sown early in spring in a nursery to a depth of 0.5 cm. The seeds are very small, so they are sown superficially, no deeper than 1 cm. open ground and late autumn under the snow. Seeds need high soil moisture to germinate. Small seedlings appear after 2-4 weeks and develop very slowly at first.

With sufficient humidity and a temperature of + 18-20 ° C, seedlings appear on the 7-10th day. Thyme seeds are small, seedlings are poorly visible, so you need to carefully monitor their development, not allowing weeds to drown out seedlings. At the age of 2 months, seedlings form compact bushes and are suitable for planting in a permanent place. Plants bloom in most cases in the 2nd year.

The easiest way to propagate thyme is by dividing the bush. To do this, the bush is dug up and carefully cut into pieces. Twigs creeping along the ground are separated during the entire growing season and planted immediately in a permanent place or separately for growing.

Cuttings are carried out from spring to mid-summer, cutting young shoots 3–5 cm long and rooting them in greenhouses or under glass jars. It is important not to overmoisten, otherwise the cuttings will rot. They root perfectly in 2-3 weeks.

Thyme pruning

Cut off at least a third of the height so that the bush is compact. Pruning also prevents self-seeding, stimulates branching, and favorably affects flowering. Creeping thyme is pruned in late autumn, because after flowering the heads of inflorescences remain decorative for a long time.

After pruning, thyme seems to dry out for a while. However, after about 2 weeks, new leaves appear on it.

Thyme early, false-pubescent, dwarf, Doflera and others undersized varieties and the forms of thyme are not pruned.

Flowers are cut according to the same rules as trees and shrubs. With a sharply sharpened pruner or garden knife, an oblique cut is made, located at a distance of about 0.5 cm from the last bud, which is left on the plant.

Harvesting.

The plant blooms in May-June, bears fruit in July-August. The crop is harvested at the beginning of the period of mass flowering, starting from the 2nd year of the plant's life. The first cut (10–15 cm from the soil surface) of the above-ground mass is carried out in June, the second - in September-October. When harvesting, the raw materials are dried in a dryer, in a well-ventilated area or in the shade under a canopy.

Garden advice! Thyme seeds are harvested from plants of the 2nd and 3rd year of vegetation. In the same place, thyme can be grown for 3-5 years. In winter, thyme plantings are mulched with peat or fallen leaves.

The use of thyme herb in cooking

Thyme has been known since ancient times and is bred in many countries of Europe, North America and North Africa for the sake of essential oil with strong antiseptic properties.

The herb thyme is used due to the fact that it contains 0.6% -1.0% essential oil. Tannins and dyes, bitterness, gum, cinchona, coffee, ursulic, chlorogenic, oleic and oleanolic acids, flavonoids, resins, fats, a large number of mineral salts, vitamin C. An inconspicuous-looking plant belongs to the category of aphrodisiacs.

The use of thyme in cooking is due to its taste and aromatic qualities. In dry form, it is added to teas, soups, main dishes.

The use of thyme herb in cooking

Speaking about the use of thyme herb, it should be understood that it is widely used as a seasoning and spice, it can be added to food as an independent seasoning, but more often it is part of mixtures. Thyme is a wonderful addition to tea and in the manufacture of aromatic alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

The use of thyme in cooking: the leaves and young shoots, which have a strong, pleasant aroma, are used in the preparation of salads and used as a spice for vegetable, fish and meat dishes, as well as game dishes. When marinated, thyme gives vegetables a distinctive flavor. The aroma of thyme is preserved for a long time in the dried state.

Methods of using thyme in medicine

Thyme infusions and decoctions are widely used to treat various diseases, as a general tonic and a powerful immune stimulant. Exist various ways the use of thyme in folk medicine and some of them can be found further in the material.

If you hang a cloth bag with thyme in your apartment, harmful microorganisms and chemical pollutants will disappear from the air. Their place will be taken by useful and fragrant thyme phytoncides. And if you shift clothes to them in the closet, he scares away the moth.

In Ukraine, thyme is considered the holy herb of the Mother of God. On the day of the Assumption of the Mother of God, her icons were decorated with bunches of this grass. Thyme was sewn into amulets and worn around the neck to ward off evil spirits. The ancient Russians said about thyme: "It is more expensive to eat precious gold and is worthy of all ailments."

Fresh thyme leaves contain 0.3-0.5% essential oil, which includes thymol and corvalol, borneol, which have strong antiseptic properties. In addition to essential oils, thyme greens contain tannins and flavonoids, mineral salts and organic acids.

In folk medicine, fresh and dried thyme leaves are used for respiratory diseases, whooping cough, as an expectorant, as a sedative for disorders nervous system.

In medicine

Thyme grass is used as part of the complex therapy of infectious and inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract (tracheitis, bronchitis, laryngitis, bronchopneumonia), topically for rinsing in inflammatory diseases of the oral cavity and pharynx (pharyngitis, tonsillitis, stomatitis, gingivitis).

Infusions and decoctions of the plant are used as lotions, wet dressings for various skin diseases: with urticaria, long-term non-healing wounds, trophic ulcers.

Thyme herb is a part of many fees and dietary supplements.

In cooking

Thyme grass as a fragrant spice is used in the fish, canning and alcoholic beverage industries. Many meat, vegetable, fish dishes, sausages, soups, sauces, salads, beans, peas and beans are seasoned with fresh or dried leaves of thyme herb. Salads are prepared from the leaves of young shoots of the plant, used as an aromatic spice when pickling vegetables, urinating apples, as well as for flavoring vinegar, cocktails and tea. Dishes with thyme stimulate appetite, improve digestion.

In aromatherapy

To prepare baths, 3-5 drops of thyme essential oil are diluted in honey, sour cream, cream, milk or kefir and added to a non-hot bath. For inhalation, take 1 drop of aroma oil per liter hot water. The procedure is carried out for 3-7 minutes. To enrich cosmetics, use 3 drops of oil per 5 g of base.

Essential oil is taken in large quantities. Before use, it is necessary to do a test for the tolerance of the essential oil.

In garden culture

Creeping thyme (thyme) is popular in the home garden and fits perfectly into alpine slides. It is quite unpretentious, drought-resistant and winter-hardy. But it should be borne in mind that this is a photophilous plant. For planting it is necessary to choose light, fertile soils. Thyme is propagated by seeds and seedlings, as well as cuttings and dividing the bush. Seedlings for sowing are grown in cold greenhouses or on ridges and planted in the ground in autumn or early spring. blooming thyme very handsome. It covers the occupied area with a continuous carpet and looks neat and beautiful even after flowering. In one place, thyme can grow for 5 years.

Classification

Creeping thyme, or thyme (lat. Thymus serpyllum L.), belongs to the Lamiaceae family (lat. Lamiaceae). The genus Thyme (Thyme) has about 150 species (according to other sources, up to 400 species), common in the temperate zone of Eurasia and North Africa.

Botanical description

Creeping thyme (thyme) is a perennial creeping shrub with a strong pleasant smell. The stems are thin, woody in the lower part, red-brown, creeping, with ascending or erect branches up to 10-15 cm high. The stems often take root, forming adventitious roots. The leaves are small, short-petiolate, opposite, oblong, elliptical, dotted with dotted glands, along the edge with long white cilia. The flowers are small, pink or pinkish-purple, collected in capitate inflorescences. The fruits are ellipsoidal dark brown nuts, up to 6 mm long. Blossoms in June-July, fruits ripen in August-September.

Spreading

Thyme (creeping thyme) grows in steppe zone, on dry and fresh sandy and sandy loamy soils, in coniferous and deciduous forests, on forest edges and clearings, clearings, meadows, in young forest plantations, on southern slopes, rocks. In the European part, it also settles on podzolic soils. Often forms turfs.

Distributed in the European part of Russia, in Western Siberia, Transbaikalia, in the Caucasus. It grows throughout Belarus, Ukraine, and is found in Kazakhstan.

Distribution regions on the map of Russia.

Procurement of raw materials

With therapeutic purpose thyme herb (Serpylli herba) is used, which is harvested during the flowering phase of the plant, cutting off the upper parts of leafy shoots with knives or secateurs, without coarse lignified parts of the stem. Dry the raw material outdoors, in the shade, in well-ventilated rooms, in attics, under sheds or in dryers at a temperature of 35-40ºС. After drying, the raw material is threshed and the coarse parts are separated.

Chemical composition

Thyme grass contains essential oil (up to 1.7%) with a predominance of phenols - thymol and liquid carvacrol. Cymene, borneol, terpinene, terpineol are found in insignificant amounts in the essential oil. The plant also contains tannins, ursolic, caffeic, chlorogenic and oleanolic acids, flavonoids, gum, bitterness, macro- and microelements.

Pharmacological properties

Thyme preparations have many medicinal properties. Infusion of thyme herb has an expectorant and antimicrobial effect.

Thyme enhances the secretion of bronchial glands, stimulates motor activity ciliated epithelium of the upper respiratory tract, dilutes sputum and accelerates the evacuation of inflammation products and mucous masses. Thyme preparations also contribute to the loosening of inflammatory plaques. With dry lesions of the mucous membranes of the throat and larynx, the plant has an enveloping effect. In addition, thyme grass also has some antispasmodic properties due to the content of flavonoids in it, which is of no small importance in the mechanism of the expectorant action of the plant.

Thymol has a detrimental effect on coccal pathogenic flora and gram-negative microorganisms. The high antimycotic activity of thymol against pathogenic fungi was also established. It has a detrimental effect on tapeworms and some roundworms.

Successfully used preparations of thyme and diseases gastrointestinal tract accompanied by a decrease in gastric secretion, atony or intestinal spasms. When prescribing preparations from the herb of the plant, the pain in the abdomen disappears in patients, digestion normalizes, the discharge of gases improves, the separation of gastric juice increases, spasms of the gastrointestinal tract stop. Due to the disinfecting properties of thyme herb, the intestinal microflora is normalized.

Application in traditional medicine

The range of influence of thyme on the human body is quite wide and diverse. In folk medicine, it is used in the form of infusions, decoctions for internal and external use. An infusion or decoction of thyme herb is taken orally for diseases of the respiratory system, stomach, intestines, Bladder, with helminthic invasion and as a "blood-purifying", diaphoretic and diuretic.

Thyme is used for whooping cough, chronic bronchitis, bronchial asthma, headache, insomnia, hypoacid gastritis, gastric ulcer, dyspepsia, gastric atony, flatulence, colic, impaired renal function, dysmenorrhea, mental disorders associated with hard drinking in alcoholism.

Thymol essential oil of thyme is prescribed for the treatment of diarrhea, flatulence, to reduce fermentation in the intestines, for the treatment of actinomycosis of the lungs and skin .

A decoction of thyme herb in the form of lotions, compresses, is used for radiculitis, lumbosacral neuralgia, diseases of the joints (arthritis), muscles, neuritis.

A decoction of fresh or dry thyme herb is taken for anemia, catarrh, cancer of the stomach and intestines, some diseases of the nervous system, liver diseases, scurvy, and also as a blood purifier and general tonic.

An infusion of thyme herb is used in children's practice for aromatic baths with rickets, scrofula . In addition, thyme is considered a good remedy for acne and oily skin.

History reference

Creeping thyme (thyme) has many popular names: Bogorodskaya grass, incense, chebrik. Many peoples had a pagan custom of sacrifice to the gods - burning dry thyme grass. The name Bogorodskaya or the Mother of God herb is due to the fact that in Russia it was adopted on the day of the Assumption Holy Mother of God decorate her icons with bunches of this fragrant plant. In Russia, a tea drink made from thyme herb was popular.

Different types of thyme were grown in ancient Egypt to flavor the resins used in embalming. Probably even then the plant was used as a medicine.

Pliny the Elder in his writings gives 28 recipes, which include thyme. Avicenna speaks of thyme as an anthelmintic, uterine, expelling stone. The writings of Dioscorides and Theophrastus also mention healing properties thyme.

Thyme (thyme) penetrated beyond the Alps in the 11th century. The 11th-century French physician and scientist Odo of Maine mentions the plant in his poem On the Properties of Herbs. The German healer Saint Hildegarde and Albert the Great talk about him. In the herbal book of P. A. Mattiolus (Prague, 1563), the “strength and action” of thyme is described in detail for the first time. Then this information migrated to all later herbalists and folk medicine.

Literature

1. State Pharmacopoeia of the USSR. Eleventh edition. Issue 1 (1987), issue 2 (1990).

2. State Register medicines. Moscow 2004.

3. Medicinal plants of the State Pharmacopoeia. Pharmacognosy. (Edited by I.A. Samylina, V.A. Severtsev). - M., "AMNI", 1999.

4. Mashkovsky M.D. "Medications". In 2 volumes - M., New Wave Publishing House LLC, 2000.

5. "Phytotherapy with the basics of clinical pharmacology", ed. V.G. Kukes. - M.: Medicine, 1999.

6. P.S. Chikov. "Medicinal plants" M.: Medicine, 2002.

7. Turova A.D. "Medicinal plants of the USSR and their application". Moscow. "The medicine". 1974.

8. Sokolov S.Ya., Zamotaev I.P. Handbook of medicinal plants (phytotherapy). - M.: VITA, 1993.

9. A.P. Efremov, I.A. Schroeter, T.P. Osadchaya "Secret pantries of nature". - M.O. Publishing house "Overlay", 2001. - 160 p.

10. Medicinal plants: A reference guide. / N.I. Grinkevich, I.A. Balandina, V.A. Ermakova and others; Ed. N.I. Grinkevich - M.: graduate School, 1991. - 398 p.

11. Lesiovskaya E.E., Pastushenkov L.V. "Pharmacotherapy with the basics of herbal medicine." Tutorial. - M.: GEOTAR-MED, 2003.

12. Nikolaichuk L.V., Bazhenova L.A. "Herbal Secrets". - Minsk: Urajay, 1998.

13. V.P. Makhlayuk. Medicinal plants in folk medicine. Moscow. 1992.

14. Nosov A. M. Medicinal plants. - M.: EKSMO-Press, 2000. - 350 p.

15. healthy skin and herbal remedies/ Author-comp.: I. Pustyrsky, V. Prokhorov. - M. Machaon; Minsk: Book House, 200. - 192 p.

Thyme, or, as this herb is otherwise called, thyme, is popular not only in the medical field as medicinal plant, but also in cooking, churches to decorate icons for the holidays and even in magical rituals. This is perennial grass, which has small (mostly small) leaves and small pinkish with purple tint flowers.

This plant may have the appearance of ordinary flowers or small size shrub. It can be found in its original wild form, and cultivated. It is most common in Europe, the Caucasus, the Urals, Crimea, some parts of Siberia and Transbaikalia. Thyme "loves" sandy, as well as subsandy soil types, although it is quite often found in deciduous, coniferous forests. AT vivo growth can reach three decades.

In gardens, the plant takes root quite easily. In the shady side, its roots will quickly become thinner, so it is preferable to take care of sufficient lighting. Does not tolerate standing water.

Since thyme grass is not whimsical enough, in addition to open areas, it can also be found at home.

Useful properties of thyme

Thyme is valuable not only because of its effect on the human body. First of all, people noticed that it is very fragrant plant. It began to be used in ancient Greece, but at that time it served as a flavoring agent: the grass was used as incense for temples. It was after this that the word "incense" came into use.

But thyme was used in temples not only in Greece. In Russia, he also had popularity as a church plant: for the holidays they decorated the decoration of halls and icons. After that, it began to be called Bogorodskaya grass.

Use in the medical field

The medicinal value of the plant is due to the composition. The grass contains a large amount of vitamins, valuable organic acids, minerals, resins, cymol, thymol, gums. The aroma of the herb is remembered due to the presence of thymol and cymol. But, the most valuable component is the essential oil, which can be used in the medical field both in combination with other components, and as an independent medicine.

Among folk healers, the most common dosage form of a remedy from this plant is decoctions and infusions. They are recommended for use in the treatment of diseases such as:

• cough;
• bronchitis;
• asthma;
• whooping cough;
• tuberculosis;
• nervous disorders;
• prolonged depression;
• stress and chronic fatigue;
• neurasthenia;
• spasm;
• increased formation of gases in the intestines;
• dysbacteriosis;
• prostatitis;
• flu;
• migraine;
• painful menstruation;
• baldness;
• alcoholism;
• hypertension.

Thyme - male power

In many ancient treatises, thyme is presented as a "male plant". This is due to the fact that very often thyme was used to treat men's health. In modern medicine, preparations containing thyme for men are used to treat prostatitis, genitourinary ailments, and problems with potency.

The composition of this herb includes substances such as molybdenum and selenium, which have a fairly strong effect on the functioning of the reproductive system. With regular intake of thyme, erectile dysfunction can be cured, as well as eliminate premature ejaculations and significantly increase the amount of seminal fluid.

Since the psycho-emotional state is often the cause of a man's sexual insolvency, thyme infusions are also used. They have a good sedative effect, help to cope with depressive states and normalize the work of the central nervous system as a whole.

The benefits of Bogorodsk weed for women

Thyme is no less useful and valuable for females. For example, if a woman has lost consciousness, thyme will quickly bring her to her senses - it is enough to let her feel the aroma of this plant, mashed in the palm of your hand.

In addition, hemorrhoids, bleeding from the uterus, cystitis can be treated by taking morning and evening tinctures from this plant.

Also, thyme is incredibly useful for females to calm the nervous system, normalize sleep. AT modern conditions constant stress thyme will help women maintain their health.

The use of the plant in cooking

The area of ​​cooking where thyme is used most often is in heavy dishes. It is added to fatty, meat, bean dishes which are heavy enough for the stomach. Any dishes, even traditional cutlets, vegetable stew and soups, thyme adds spice.

At the same time, it is worth remembering that adding thyme to dishes not only improves them taste characteristics, but also contributes to their more long storage. The shelf life of dishes is increased due to the antiseptic properties of the plant. The popular Herbes de Provence herb mixture contains some species of this plant.

Weed is used in industrial production- sausages, bakery products, drinks.

Contraindications

With such a wide range of uses, thyme has many situations when it is contraindicated:

• possible individual intolerance to the plant, which may be associated with allergic reactions;
• heart problems, in particular, thyme is not used to treat patients with heart failure;
• since the plant has the ability to raise blood pressure, it is not recommended for those people who have hypertension;
• in patients diagnosed with elevated level acidity in the stomach, taking drugs or remedies with thyme can lead to gastritis or ulcers;
• with arrhythmia;
• problems with the thyroid gland;
• emphysema;
• in case of malfunction and;
• during pregnancy.

In any case, before starting treatment with thyme-based preparations or folk remedies, it is recommended to visit a doctor to clarify the acceptable dosages and the required duration of the course of treatment.

Thyme also has age restrictions. In particular, funds based on it should not be given to children under the age of two.

How to assemble and the nuances of the workpiece

The most valuable parts of the plant for the medical field are the top of the plant during flowering, as well as the leaves. During the collection, you need to have special scissors. You do not need to pull out the plant along with the roots, just cut it off upper part flowering grass.

After harvesting, the grass is selected - parts with defects are not used in further stages blanks. The selected grass is carefully laid out on paper and dried in a ventilated room without direct sunlight.

After the grass is dried, it is necessary to eliminate too thick stems.

Keep this medicinal herb in dried form, a well-closed porcelain or glass container is recommended. The allowable period is no more than two years. At the same time, if during storage it became noticeable that the grass has lost its specific aroma, therefore, it is not recommended to use it. The loss of aroma indicates that all valuable essential oils, which have the most pronounced healing properties, have evaporated from the raw materials.

Traditional medicines with thyme

In modern medicine, this plant is used to produce many expectorants and antiseptics. The most popular are:

• a variety of herbal collections - with antiseptic, immuno-strengthening, soothing and anti-inflammatory properties (such as Alfit);
• expectorant and mucolytic agents - Codelac Broncho elixir with thyme, Pertussin and many others;
• collection of thyme;
• thyme oil, which is used not only for the treatment of various ailments, but also in cosmetology.

Recipes with thyme in folk medicine

When, according to one legend, thyme grew where Elena the Beautiful shed her tears, folk healers and healers began to use it almost immediately. Various forms of medicines are prepared from it, which are used for respiratory ailments, SARS, problems with men's health, skin, alcoholism and in many other situations.

Thyme tea recipes - a universal remedy for prevention

This drink will not only give strength and vigor after a hard day's work. It is recommended to use it during seasonal influenza epidemics, as well as an additional medicine for colds, sore throats, coughs and other problems of the upper respiratory tract.

1. Option: for cooking, you need to prepare a glass, where 60-70 ml of water is poured and a teaspoon of the previously prepared thyme collection is poured. The components are thoroughly mixed and put on fire. When the liquid has reached a boil, it is set aside and allowed to stand for about 10-15 minutes. After the allotted time, it is recommended to strain the liquid, after which it is diluted with boiling water. After that, tea can be consumed.
2. Option: This option is more "traditional". It is necessary to prepare an empty teapot, where, in addition to the usual tea, which is preferred to be consumed, they put a couple of spoons of dried tea. Herbs are poured with boiling water and infused for a couple of minutes, after which the tea can be cooled a little more and taken.
3. Option: herbal tea, where, in addition to thyme, St. John's wort and lingonberries will be used. All components are mixed in the same amount. Next, a spoonful of the finished herbal mixture is taken and poured with boiling water. After 10-15 minutes, the tea can be filtered and consumed.

In addition to valuable medicinal properties, thyme teas have excellent palatability and will be not only in favor, but also in pleasure.

Thyme infusion recipes that are used for coughs

Such infusions are often prescribed by both folk and traditional doctors for the treatment of various respiratory ailments. They are recommended for sore throat, asthma, as well as the common cold.

To prepare, you need to take about 230-250 ml of preheated water and add a tablespoon of dry thyme herb collection to it. Next, the container is closed and left for 50-60 minutes. After the allotted time, the liquid is filtered. The medicine in this form is taken three times a day in the amount of 1-2 tablespoons at a time. Helps with coughs, asthma, colds, asthma.
For a stronger effect, the resulting infusion is used together with other drugs. In this case, aloe and honey are used, which are mixed in equal amounts. Further, only one tablespoon of the resulting mixture is taken and mixed with a tablespoon of pre-prepared thyme infusion. The resulting remedy must be drunk immediately.

The same infusion can be used not only for oral administration, but also for inhalation. In this case, immediately after preparation, the container with the infusion is placed on the table. The patient bends down and covers his head with a towel, inhales the vapors of the infusion. The recommended time for inhalation is a quarter of an hour. After the procedure, it is recommended to wrap the throat with a warm woolen scarf or scarf. In no case should you go out into the cold air after inhalation.

Recipe for decoction of a plant for alcoholism

This remedy has the property of inducing vomiting. This effect is provided due to the high content of thymol.

A spoonful of thyme should be poured with 220-240 ml of boiling water and put the container in a water bath. After a quarter of an hour, the liquid is drained, and the same volume of water is added to the container with the remains of the grass.

The finished decoction is given to the patient in the amount of 50-65 ml. At the same time, after taking the medicine, the patient must first sniff vodka for about 5 minutes, and then drink 25 g. After 15-30 minutes, a disgust reaction will occur - the patient will begin to feel nausea and vomiting.

Treatment in this way takes place within one or two weeks. A prerequisite in it is the use of only fresh broth.

thyme cough syrup recipe

A remedy prepared according to this recipe is not at all worse than that, which can be purchased at the pharmacy kiosk.

In the preparation, not dried, but fresh, only plucked raw materials are used. It needs to be pre-treated - washed thoroughly. Next, the grass is crushed and dries out a little.

Raw materials are placed in a small container, after which 430-440 ml of water are added and boiled over low heat. After the liquid boils, it is necessary to monitor the amount of remaining water - it should boil away by ½. After that, the container is removed from the fire. After the liquid has cooled, it is filtered. Next, juice of three medium garlic cloves is added to it (juice only, without pulp) and about 0.3 kg of honey. All components must be mixed well.

Bath recipe with the addition of thyme to relieve fatigue

This bath can be taken twice a week. For her, you need to prepare an infusion of thyme. Approximately 5 liters of boiled water add 0.1 kg of dry thyme. Next, the liquid is infused for about half an hour. After the allotted time, the infusion is ready to be added to the bath.

Thyme decoction recipe for stomach cancer

The prepared dry collection must be thoroughly chopped with a knife, after which it is poured into a small container, poured with boiling water and boiled in a water bath for about half an hour. When cooking, you need to observe the proportions: there should be 10 times more water than thyme.

Cooled and filtered broth is taken 30-40 ml three times a day.

Divine weed on guard of health

Thyme - incredible useful plant, which is used in cooking, aromatherapy, cosmetology and medicine. Its properties have long been appreciated by healers. To this day, modern medicine actively uses this herb both in the preparation of natural home remedies and for medications.

Thyme - its other name is thyme or Bogorodskaya grass - a fragrant medicinal plant that looks like a small creeping shrub that blooms with small pinkish-purple flowers. The ancient Greeks, Romans and Slavs revered the beneficial properties of thyme, considering it a powerful natural medicine endowed with divine power. Mentions of him are found in the writings of Avicenna, Roman soldiers took baths with thyme to get vigor and vitality.

Since ancient times, our ancestors used grass for pagan rituals, fumigating rooms, making decoctions and infusions from it, which help in the treatment of many diseases. It was believed that the smoke from thyme helps to ward off evil spirits, cure fear in children, protect against damage and the evil eye. The name “Bogorodskaya grass” was given to thyme because of the tradition existing in Russia on the day of the Assumption of the Mother of God with bunches of this grass to decorate the icon of the Mother of God.

Thyme grows almost throughout Russia, there are more than 30 of its species. But in the USA, Canada and Europe it is grown on purpose. In addition, thyme is an excellent honey plant, for which beekeepers especially love it. But this is not all the useful properties of thyme - fragrant herb is widely used in cooking. Dried herbs are added to soups, sauces, minced meat, fried fish. Thyme can not only brighten the taste of dishes, but also improve digestion. In Greece, Spain and Turkey, thyme is used as an essential seasoning for pickling olives. Thyme tea combined with other herbs and honey is excellent folk remedy for the treatment of colds.

Useful properties of thyme

The range of preventive and medicinal properties thyme is extremely wide. Let's dwell on the main beneficial effects of the plant:

• Thanks to its bronchodilatory and expectorant effects, thyme helps fight coughs, colds and respiratory problems

• Decoctions of thyme help to increase the overall vitality, therefore, are recommended for beriberi, chronic fatigue and loss of strength;

• Thyme helps in the treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal nature of any complexity. It is able to stop the process of "fermentation" in the intestines and improve digestion;

• The plant is used for muscle pain, bruises, rheumatism, sciatica, neuritis, neuralgia and various joint diseases;

• Thyme infusions have a calming effect, so they help fight headaches, migraines and insomnia;

• Thyme helps maintain men's health: normalizes the functioning of the genitourinary system and fights prostatitis;

• Decoctions are used for acne, rashes, wounds on the face, as well as for the treatment of oily skin;

• Infusions from the plant are recommended for toothache, inflammation of the mouth, throat problems and hoarseness.

Due to the high content of essential oil, thyme is used not only in medicine, but also in the cosmetic field. In particular, thyme is present in numerous remedies for repairing naturally damaged or brittle hair and damaged nails.

Contraindications to the use of thyme

All means have not only positive properties, but also a number of contraindications. The thyme is no exception. Therefore, before starting treatment, consult a doctor for advice. It is also worth knowing that a positive effect will be achieved only with moderate use. An overdose of thyme can cause problems with the thyroid gland and blood pressure. It is not recommended to use this plant:

• during pregnancy;
• duodenal ulcer and stomach;
• kidney and liver diseases;
• patients with atrial fibrillation;
• with cardiosclerosis;
• with atherosclerosis of cerebral vessels.

Of course, in rare cases, exceptions are possible, for example, pregnant women are allowed to use thyme just before childbirth, without fear for the child. It will help to increase the tone of the uterus and facilitate the birth of the baby.

Thyme in folk medicine

Thyme is widely used to treat many disorders and diseases.

Organs of vision:

• Conjunctivitis. Pour a tablespoon of chopped thyme with a glass of boiling water. Infuse for 45 minutes under the lid, strain through cheesecloth several times. Moisten cotton pads with infusion, put on eyes, hold for 15 minutes. The course of treatment is several days, 2-3 times a day;

• Cataract. Grind 100 grams of dried thyme herb into powder. Mix with 500 ml of natural honey. Simmer in a water bath over low heat, stirring occasionally, 60 minutes. Take the remedy inside at bedtime, 1 teaspoon daily. Store the mixture in the refrigerator.

Brain, vessels and heart:

• To improve memory. Pour a tablespoon of thyme with a glass of boiling water, put in a water bath, simmer for 15 minutes. Lubricate the head with a decoction of thyme several times a week;

• With a stroke. 8 tablespoons of thyme flowers pour 500 ml of vodka. Infuse for 2 weeks in a glass container in a dark place. Take three times a day for 35 drops. You can rub tincture on numb parts of the body;

• With hypertension. Mix 3 parts of thyme, 1 - chamomile, 2 each - fireweed, oregano. 15 grams of the collection pour 500 ml of boiling water. Infuse for 40 minutes, strain. Drink three times a day for a quarter cup.

For the digestive system:

• from dysbacteriosis. Two glasses of water pour 1 tbsp. thyme, boil and turn off the fire. Insist for 1.5 hours, wrapping the pan. Strain and take 40 minutes before meals twice a day for a glass. Duration of treatment - 2 months;

• From gastritis with low acidity. Pour 10 grams of grass with 200 ml of boiling water, insist under the lid for half an hour. Strain, take two to three times a day, 2 tablespoons. Against impotence: 1 tablespoon of thyme flowers pour a glass of boiling water. Cover the pan with a lid, wrap with a towel, leave for 30 minutes. Take half an hour before meals up to six times a day.

Colds, SARS, bronchitis, influenza:

• Against cough. Pour 1 tablespoon of thyme with a glass of boiling water, insist in a thermos for 2 hours. Strain, take after meals 3-4 times a day for a tablespoon, for children 1 teaspoon;

• To improve immunity. Mix 1 tablespoon of thyme infusion in equal parts with honey and aloe juice. Drink this medicine 3 times a day, regardless of food intake;

• From bronchitis. Mix 3 tablespoons of thyme, 1 tbsp. mints and oregano. Pour 500 ml of boiling water, insist overnight. Take the next day instead of tea several times a day.

From alcoholism:

15 grams of dried thyme pour 500 ml of boiling water. Simmer in a water bath for 15 minutes, strain. Add water to a volume of 500 ml. Take 50 - 70 grams with a glass of vodka several times a day. The duration of treatment is 1 - 2 weeks. Due to an overdose of thymol, nausea and vomiting may begin, after which an aversion to alcohol will appear.

For the nervous system:

• With neuralgia. Pour 1 tablespoon of thyme with a glass of boiling water. Take three times a day for a third of a glass. Against insomnia, convulsions, neuroses. Pour 2 tablespoons of thyme with a glass of boiling water, insist under the lid for half an hour. Strain the infusion, drink two tbsp. morning and afternoon. The last dose is a quarter cup 2 hours before bedtime;

• Calming decoction. Mix in equal parts knotweed, hops, oregano, thyme, initial letter, Chernobyl, yasnotka. Pour 15 grams of the collection with 500 ml of hot water, leave for half an hour, wrapping the pan. Strain, take a decoction in the morning and evening for 50 ml. 2 hours before bedtime, drink half a glass of decoction.

For the treatment of joints and muscles:

• From rheumatism. Pour 200 grams of thyme with 2 liters of boiling water. Infuse for two hours, strain the infusion. Add the infusion to the bath, take it for 15 minutes 1 time in two days;

• From sciatica and paralysis. Pour 10 grams of dried thyme with a glass of boiling water, leave for 15 minutes. Take three times a day for 20 ml of infusion.

For the oral cavity:

• With periodontal disease, gingivitis. Two tablespoons of thyme pour 220 ml of boiling water, leave for an hour. Rinse the mouth with infusion several times a day. From bad breath. Pour 15 grams of thyme herb with a glass of boiling water. Infuse for 25 minutes, strain. Rinse your mouth with infusion after eating or when you smell bad breath. Store for more than a day;

• With stomatitis. Mix 2 drops each of thyme, geranium, mint essential oils, add 4 drops of lemon oil and 1 teaspoon of cognac. Pour the mixture into a glass warm water rinse your mouth 2-3 times a day.

Thyme in cosmetology

Thyme is used in the production of formulations for the treatment and strengthening of hair. It is only necessary to rub 3 drops of thyme essential oil into the head during washing, then after holding for a while (15-20 minutes), rinse off. You can also use a hair mask, which consists of a few drops. lemon juice and thyme oil and burdock oil. Such procedures will help you restore the structure of the hair and give it shine. They need to be done 1-2 times a week.

You can get rid of acne by adding a few drops of essential oil to a lotion or cream.

The healing properties of thyme are also used for massage of the neck, face and body. It is necessary to drop a couple of drops into the massage cream, and daytime fatigue will immediately go away, and relaxation of the whole body will come completely.

The properties of thyme are also used in aromatherapy. Inhaling the vapors of this plant, the headache and fatigue will immediately disappear.

Thyme herb is also found in many elixirs, such as mouthwashes, to remove bad smell. You can just chew on a leaf of thyme and the bad smell will immediately disappear.

It is also added to creams and ointments for the legs, hands and face.

Collection and preparation of thyme

In Russia, thyme is most often found in the European part, especially in Krasnodar Territory, in the Caucasus, the Urals, Transbaikalia and in some parts of Western Siberia. The plant grows in the most different conditions: in sandy areas, in coniferous forests, on southern rocks, in pine forests, on forest edges. Thyme can be identified by appearance- it always grows massively, forming voluminous turfs.

Thyme blooms for a fairly long time - usually from May to September, with slight adjustments depending on weather conditions specific area of ​​growth. All the most valuable properties thyme appear even at the start of flowering, so it is recommended to collect and dry the plants during this period.

When collecting, you need to use scissors or a sharp knife: use a tool to cut off the top of the shoots with leaves and flowers.

Dry thyme as follows:

• prepare a sieve or tray, cover it with paper and evenly distribute thyme on it;
• place the plant either in a ventilated room, or on the street, but under a canopy;
• dry thyme for 3-5 days, turning regularly and protecting from moisture.

The leaves will tell you that drying is complete: they will darken and become a little tough. After this, the plants need to be sieved. The resulting raw materials are packed either in linen bags or in glass containers. It should be stored exclusively in a dry place.

Thyme (thyme)- translated from Latin means "courageous". Thyme is a member of the Lamiaceae family, it is a green shrub with small oblong leaves and purple flowers(see photo). The semi-shrub grows near roadsides, among stones, in sunny glades.

The most famous varieties:

• lemon thyme;
• creeping thyme;
• Thyme ordinary.

Thyme has been known to ancient civilizations. In ancient Greece, there was a tradition to bathe in thyme infusion in order to gain strength. Roman soldiers bathed in a decoction of thyme to be even more courageous. It was also used as a spice, adding grass to food.

In ancient Egypt, thyme was used instead of perfume to give the body a pleasant aroma. Thyme was also widely used in Egypt for embalming.

Growing: planting and care

You can grow thyme on suburban area. The semi-shrub is grown from seeds. Seeds can be planted in the ground both in spring and autumn. Thyme is planted on a warm day. In greenhouse conditions, seeds germinate in two weeks. Caring for a shrub comes down to regular watering. Thyme is used not only in cooking and folk medicine, but also in landscape design. Thyme flowers, as well as bright green shrubs, will decorate any site.

You can also grow thyme on a windowsill. At home, the shrub is grown by seedlings or seeds. Thyme needs to pick up a spacious pot, but on condition that the roots of the plant will be able to cover the ground, otherwise the thyme will die. Thyme loves sunlight and does not tolerate waterlogging- here's what to remember about growing a shrub. If you are growing thyme for its greenery, then you need to cut it more often and prevent the subshrub from blooming.

Medicinal properties

The medicinal properties of thyme have been known for a long time. Modern scientific research has proven that thyme is an effective bactericidal agent. An essential oil was found in the shrub, the main substance of which is thymol, as well as tannins, vitamins, oleic acid, and bitterness.

Essential oil (and its main component - thymol) is an excellent bactericidal agent. The action of thymol is similar to that of phenol, but not as toxic to the body. Thymol does not irritate mucous membranes. Essential oil is produced from the ground part of the semi-shrub.

The wide spectrum of action of thyme allows you to use it as diuretic, antipyretic, sedative. Thyme helps digest heavy foods, has choleretic properties. The herb is considered a good blood purifier.

In ancient times, sleeping pillows were stuffed with thyme, because they believed that this brings longevity and health to the person sleeping on it. The soothing aroma of thyme provided sound sleep and peace.

A decoction of thyme is effective for sinusitis and sinusitis. Also, a decoction of the plant treats a sore throat and diseases of the oral cavity. The bactericidal action of thyme helps to disinfect the oral cavity, remove unpleasant odors.

With the internal intake of thyme, the heart rhythm normalizes, vegetative disorders disappear, and working capacity increases. Men note the restoration of sexual function.

Application in cooking

In cooking, thyme has found application as a spicy-aromatic seasoning. Its bitter taste and pleasant aroma go well with many meat dishes. The calorie content of dried grass is 276 kilocalories per 100 grams. Thyme should be stored in a tightly closed jar due to its high content of essential substances. Dried leaves of the plant are used to flavor dishes.

Thyme is added in the preparation of bean and pea soups, as well as lentils. The taste of thyme goes well with vegetable dishes, as well as cabbage and potato dishes. The bitterness that is present in the dried leaves of the plant will well emphasize fried meat dishes. Thyme is widely used for cooking game, giving it an appetizing flavor. Chefs recommend adding thyme when cooking homemade meat pies, pork liver.

A little thyme is sometimes put in bakery products, it improves the taste of pies, rolls. At the industrial level, thyme is added when smoking meat and fish, as well as products based on them. Thyme is used for salting vegetables: cucumbers, zucchini, tomatoes. Fresh thyme leaves are added to salads, sauces and marinades.

Thyme has a strong aroma, so very little is needed to flavor a dish. The recommended rate is 1-2 g of fresh thyme or 0.2-0.3 g of dried herb per serving. There are a lot of recipes using thyme. You can buy seasoning in the supermarket in the spice department or prepare it yourself. Thyme can be replaced with rosemary if needed.

The benefits of thyme (thyme) and treatment

The benefits of thyme have long been known traditional healers. It was used to treat various neuralgias, neuroses, knowing about the calming effect of the shrub. Tea with thyme is also known, which is drunk for colds.

The patients were given a decoction of the plant, after which they noted a surge of strength. Regular consumption of thyme helps with stomach pain. Thyme improves digestion, reduces flatulence, and normalizes the intestinal microflora due to its disinfectant properties. Traditional medicine uses a decoction of thyme as an anthelmintic.

In modern medicine, a decoction of thyme is used for the treatment of diseases of the upper respiratory tract. The herb has an expectorant effect, thins sputum, and helps relieve inflammation. Thyme is used to make various syrups, cough tablets, and pastes. On the basis of thyme, a natural preparation "Pectusin" is produced, which is used to treat severe cough in children.

With rheumatism, radiculitis, joint pain, bruises, thyme compresses are widely used. When applied externally, thyme will also be effective for inflammation of the eyelids, non-healing wounds, ulcers.

Therapeutic thyme baths help with skin diseases, dandruff, joint pains, as a general tonic. For a bath with thyme, it will be enough to pour 50 grams of dried grass with a bucket of boiling water.

Traditional healers widely used thyme to treat alcohol addiction. The therapeutic effect is due to the action of thyme essential oil. For the treatment of alcoholism, it is necessary to brew 15 grams of thyme in a water bath in 1 glass of water. After 10 minutes of boiling, drain the infusion and dilute with water to the original volume. An infusion of thyme is given to an alcoholic several times a day, 50 ml each, then half a glass of vodka is given. The body reacts to large doses of thymol with nausea and vomiting, which is the reason for the therapeutic effect of this remedy. The course of treatment is 1-2 weeks: during this time, the patient will have an aversion to alcohol.

Thyme harm and contraindications

Thyme is contraindicated for pregnant women due to the high content of thymol. This substance increases the tone of the muscles of the uterus, which will negatively affect the course of pregnancy.

Thyme can harm the body in case of kidney diseases, this is due to some toxicity of thymol, which can lead to a deterioration in the patient's condition.