The chief constituent of the oil is thymol (about 45%). Calorific value: 340 calories/100 grams.Ĭrushed thyme on steam distillation yields about 2.5% volatile oil, which is yellowish-reddish liquid with a pleasant smell and a sharp taste.Vitamin C (ascorbic acid):12 mg/100 gram.Thyme was also used as incense to place on coffins during funerals. During middle ages in Europe, thyme was placed under pillows to have a good sleep and ward off nightmares. The use of Thyme was influenced by the Romans in Europe, who used them to purify their rooms and to give it a nice aroma. The seeds are planted during the spring season, and then it grows as a perennial.Īncient Egyptians used the herb for embalming and ancient Greeks used it in their bath and they also burnt it as incense in the temples. Thyme is cultivated in any hot and sunny location on well drained soil. The flavour is aromatic, warm and pungent. The dried leaves are curled and brownish green colour, usually not longer than 6 to 7 mm and marketed in whole or ground form. Though it is not traditionally popular spice in India it is gaining popularity during recent past due to impact of globalization. In Hindi language it is called Banajwain, In Punjabi language it is Marizha, Masho and Rangsbur and in Urdu language it is known as Hasha.ĭried leaves and flowering tops of both the species are known as Thyme, though commercially the cultivated variety that is the first variety is important and globally popular. In India, thyme is known in various names depending upon the particular language. The botanical name of thyme is ‘Thymus vulgaris Linn’ (Thyme) and ‘Thymus serpyllum Linn’ (Wild Thyme). Tip: Store in the refrigerator wrapped in a slightly damp cloth to preserve freshness.Thyme leaves are popular for their strong flavour. Thyme was put under pillows to ward off nightmares in the Middle Ages. Thyme was used to treat depression by the Romans. If a Greek says you smell of thyme, it means you're a refined human. Thyme is herb for courage, long being used as synonyms and as a symbol. It is also used to treat wounds and infections.Ī recipe in the 17th century infused with thyme was said to enable people to see fairies. It helps remedy chest congestion, cough, throat inflammation and toenail fungus. It is also an excellent source of iron and manganese and a very good source of calcium.Ħ. The volatile oil components of thyme have also been shown to have antimicrobial activity against a host of different bacteria and fungi therefore thyme is considered anti-bacterial.ĥ. Thyme also contains a variety of flavonoids that increase its antioxidant capacity.Ĥ. Thymol has been found to protect and significantly increase the percentage of healthy fats found in cell membranes and other cell structuresģ. A tea made by soaking the herb in water is very effective against cough and bronchitis.Ģ. In earlier days, thyme oil was used to medicate bandages as it contains a compound called thymol which has many medicinal benefits. For cooking purpose you can either use the whole sprig or you can remove the leaves and discard the stem.ġ. Many a types of beans such as kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans and tomatoes are enhanced flavor-wise with the addition of thyme. It is added to many a fruits from an aromatic element such as eggs, pasta sauces, poached fish and various meats. Woolly Thyme: It is cultivated for its soft, silvery foliage.Ī popular use is in the combination of herb known as 'bouquet garni' used to flavor stock, soups and stews. White and Red Thyme: Characterized by the color of their leaves. Spicy Orange Thyme: With bluish green leaves, it has a citrus-y taste and flavor. Lemon Thyme: It is a lemon scented thyme and is a popular herb. Fresh thyme is free from any spotting or bruising. Fresh thyme is commonly sold in bunches of sprigs. Its shelf life is almost a week and it is usually available all year round. A very popular herb, it has green-white curled leaves with a pungent minty taste and lemony aroma.
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