Thyme essential oil is usually made from Thymus vulgaris by crushing the leaves and then infusing it in a carrier oil. It has a strongly herbal aroma that is sweet and lemony and has an herbaceous character.
Known for its medicinal properties, thyme essential oil is good for promoting bravery and strength. It also improves concentration, revives low spirits and restores morale.
Use of Thyme Essential Oil for the Body
Thyme essential oil has a number of properties that make it beneficial for our health. It is antibacterial, antifungal, and antiseptic. Components of thyme essential oil are used to create mouthwash because of their ability to inhibit bacterial growth.
It can act as a diuretic and a stimulant and helps expel excess water from the organism. It also stimulates hormone secretion, circulation, and digestion and also has anti-rheumatic properties.
Thyme oil increases the blood pressure and can be used by people who are suffering from low blood pressure. It also helps to stimulate menstrual flow and has a cicatrizing effect on the skin and can be used to remove or reduce the appearance of scars and marks left by acne or small pox.
The essential oil of thyme is also effective in helping with respiratory issues and can cure infections, move phlegm and reduce coughing.
Use of Thyme Essential Oil for the Mind
Thyme essential oil can be very helpful to those suffering from depression. It affects many of the feelings that come with it – melancholy, pessimism, apathy, and fear. It helps with poor self-confidence, feeling of alienation and self-doubt.
Thyme essential oil has a fortifying and uplifting effect on the spirit and the mind. It stimulates and energizes, and leaves us feeling invigorated. It instills drive and restores morale at the deepest levels and enhances assertiveness and bravery and enlivens the spirit.
Thyme Essential Oil Relieves Depression Caused By:
- Demoralization
- Apprehension, self-doubt
- Poor self-confidence
Thyme in Ancient History
In ancient Egypt, thyme was one of the plants used in the embalming process. In ancient Greece, thyme was a symbol of courage. It was often used in baths and burned in temples to instill courage into those who smell it.
The ancient Romans also held thyme in high regard. It was partially due to its ability to invoke courage, and partially due to its ability to protect from poisons. Romans were also the ones responsible for spreading thyme through Europe during their conquests.
Thyme in Modern History
In medieval Europe, thyme continued to be a symbol of courage. People would put it under the pillow to ward off bad dreams. It was also given to knight before jousting, or to soldiers going into battle, to give them courage and strength. It also played a part in funeral rites, as it was believed that it eased the passage into the afterlife.
In modern history, just as in ancient history, thyme was used for its medicinal properties. Nicholas Culpeper, the famed English botanist, wrote about thyme in his Complete Herbal:
“It is a noble strengthener of the lungs, as notable a one as grows; neither is there scarce a better remedy growing for that disease in children which they commonly call the Chin-cough, than it is. It is an excellent remedy for shortness of breath.
Thyme Essential Oil Cautions
Thyme essential oil is known to cause skin irritation. People with sensitive skin should do a patch test before using it. If using on skin, it should be diluted to a very low concentration. It should not be used internally. People with thyroid issues should check with their doctor before using thyme oil.
The essential oil of thyme raises blood pressure. It shouldn’t be used by people who have a high blood pressure. Thyme essential oil should be avoided during pregnancy and when nursing.
