A member of the mint family, with woody stems and narrow, gray-green leaves. The entire herb except for the root is steam distilled to produce the essential oil. There are many different varieties of thyme, several of which are used in health care. The linalol chemotype is notably softer than the thymol chemotype. Both are safe for children used in the proper dilutions. See contraindications below for more information.
Thins secretions: helps reduce symptoms of bronchitis and nasal congestion by liquefying secretions. Considered an expectorant by the German E Commission.
Calms coughing: Helps reduce chronic, spasmodic coughing by relaxing the respiratory tract and making it easier to clear mucus. Approved by the German E Commission for reduction of bronchial spasms. Helpful for children with whooping cough.
Inhibits infections: broad anti-infectious action targets the nose, throat, and lungs. A good preventive oil against respiratory infections, particularly for the weak or immune-suppressed.
Stimulates the immune system: French physicians list the linalol chemotype as an immune system stimulant.
Contraindications
Do not ingest essential oil of thyme. It can be
very poisonous in small amounts, particularly the harsher chemotypes. Unless you
are absolutely sure of the chemotype of your oil, it is safest to avoid
ingestion.
Thyme thymol can be quite irritating to the skin. Always use in proper dilutions.
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