THYME ENGLISH ESSENTIAL OIL

Thymus vulgaris

The least conspicuous plants are often the most precious. Thyme creeps low across the ground, closely hugging the body of Mother Earth and clothing her in fragrant robes. Yet, its tiny leaves are barely noticeable lest it is in flower. When Thyme springs into blossom, the countryside is transformed, at least in the dry and inhospitable places that it prefers to make its home. Each year in early spring, the arid hillsides of the Mediterranean burst into a pinkish purple, sweetly scented, wonderland, abuzz with delirious bees that are lapping up the copious nectar.
In ancient times it was customary for Ladies to embroider scarves depicting a sprig of Thyme with a bee hovering above, which they would give to their knights - presumably as an alluring symbol of natural attraction. Thyme was thought a fitting scent even for the Gods. Its name derives from the Greek word 'thyein', which means 'to burn as a sacrifice', implying its use as incense. Thyme may be humble, but it is packed with power and was once thought to convey courage, strength and bravery. It was used as a strewing herb and as fragrant bedstraw, especially for women in childbed. Yet, it also had connotations with the Otherworld and the realm of fairies. The 'hillside where the wild thyme blows', was thought to be the entrance to their lovely realm. Thyme was also often planted on graves and used in embalming lotions. Sprigs of Thyme are worn for remembrance and to alleviate grief and sorrow. Although Thyme is no longer revered as it once was, it is still considered very important, not just as a culinary herb, not least as a source of Thymol, one of the best and most effective antiseptics known, which even now is widely used as a wound dressing and in cleansing agents.

Traditional
Thyme's well known antiseptic properties make it very effective as a wound dressing and for treating inflamed skin conditions, acne, abscesses, boils and the like. In aromatherapy skin care, it can be very useful as a cleansing agent for congested skin conditions. It also soothes insect bites and dispels lice, fleas and other creatures. It is one of the best agents for respiratory infections such as sore throat, laryngitis and tonsillitis and is even effective for whooping cough. It also disinfects the urinary system and can be used for cystitis and urethritis. As a rubefacient it can be used as a circulatory stimulant for arthritis, rheumatism, muscle aches and gout. It detoxifies and can be helpful for water retention and cellulites. It stimulates the uterus and promotes menstrual flow. Use with caution. Avoid during pregnancy.

Magical
Thyme can be used for protection and cleansing and as an offering to the Gods. It imparts strength, courage and bravery and can aide with difficult tasks. Thyme strengthens memory and concentration and may be helpful for those engaged in studies. It can be used as a sign of remembrance and love, especially at funerary rites. Thyme has an affinity with the fairy realm and may attract these flighty beings or help finding access to their world.

Scent
A clean, herbaceous, aromatic scent. Blends well with Marjoram, Lemon, Lavender, Rosemary, Bergamot, Cypress, Pine and Juniper.

Synonyms
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Country of origin
UK