About Thyme

by Laurie

Conehead Thyme grows slowly into a two foot wide mound that eventually reaches three feet in height. When it blooms, it is completely covered with incredibly spicy purple blossoms.

While the leaves are traditionally used as a component in the Middle Eastern spice blend called Zatar, the flavor of this plants screams hot, hot, hot. Garnish salsa verde or guacamole with the hot little flowers. Or, add the flowers with other chopped herbs like Oregano and Thyme and add to salad dressings.

Orange Balsam Thyme is deviation of English Thyme. It has a wonderfully pungent scent and flavor and can be used in any recipe calling for Thyme. should be pruned back by about a third after bloom.

Medicinal

Thyme is a powerful antiseptic. It is used in cases of anemia, bronchial ailments, and intestinal problems. It is used as an antiseptic against tooth decay, and destroys fungal infections as in athlete's foot and skin parasites such as crabs and lice.

It is good for colic, flatulence, sore throats, and colds, as well as a digestive aid and a hangover remedy. Infusions of thyme are said to be good for headaches, and has been shown to be beneficial for coughs related to colds and flu as well as whooping cough, as the active constituents are known to loosen and expel mucous.

Thyme infusion is also soothing and healing for skin irritations, muscle spasms, and fungal infections. This plant contains a constituent that is helpful for preventing blood clots.

An ointment made of the leaves is useful for treating warts, as well as easing the discomfort of gout, and kills worms internally.

Cooking - Thyme is often used in bouquet garni, which is small sprigs of fresh herbs tied together and simmered in various dishes.

Since it is an herb that helps the body to digest fatty foods, it is often used as an ingredient in those kinds of dishes.

Thyme works well in almost any dish. It is often used in stews, soups, meats and stuffings. Lemon Thyme used sparingly is delightful with fish and chicken.

It is especially tasty with meat, poultry, and game. It has a strong taste, so you may want to use it sparingly in most dishes.