Thyme Tea: Benefits, Properties, and Uses

Thyme, this herb with many virtues, has a history as rich as it is ancient. Its use dates back to antiquity, in ancient Egypt where it was used to embalm and preserve mummies thanks to its unique compounds.

The Greeks and Romans, for their part, considered it a sacred plant. They used it not only for its culinary qualities but also for its medicinal properties and even incorporated it into their invocation rituals. Hippocrates, the father of medicine, was already extolling the virtues of thyme for its antiseptic properties.

As early as the 11th century, Benedictine monks introduced this herb to Central and Northern Europe, helping it gain popularity. In the Middle Ages, it was used to ward off evil spirits and was often planted around gardens and homes.

Today, while it is no longer widely used for ritual purposes, thyme is a staple in cuisines around the world and is an ingredient in many cough suppressants and antispasmodics.

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) belongs to the Lamiaceae family. This aromatic plant is distinguished by its oval leaves and small white, pink, or purple flowers, growing to a height of 10 to 30 cm. It most commonly grows in the scrubland landscapes of the Mediterranean region and develops a distinctive, slightly camphor-like and spicy fragrance. While it thrives in the Mediterranean climate, certain species can withstand severe frosts and flourish on high mountain plateaus.

Within the Lamiaceae family, there are various varieties of thyme, each with its own distinctive characteristics. Wild thyme, for example, is renowned for its delicate flavour, while lemon thyme adds a subtle citrus note to your dishes.

Antioxidant properties

The antioxidant properties of thyme are attributed to the presence of phytochemicals, such as flavonoids, polyphenols, and particularly thymol. These substances work by neutralising free radicals* present in the body. Antioxidant enzymes such as catalase, glutathione, and superoxide dismutase are primarily responsible for reducing free radicals in the body. The in vivo activity of these enzymes was increased following the administration of an aqueous extract of T. vulgaris L., confirming the antioxidant activity of thyme infusions.

*Free radicals are unstable molecules produced naturally during cellular metabolism or in response to external factors such as pollution, UV rays, stress, and an unbalanced diet. The accumulation of free radicals can lead to oxidative stress, which damages cells and accelerates their premature ageing while making them more susceptible to various diseases.

Regularly incorporating thyme into your diet may therefore help support the body's defences against oxidative stress.

Effect on Inflammatory Mechanisms

Thyme is a natural ally for relieving various types of inflammation. Its medicinal properties extend beyond the respiratory tract to many other parts of the body. This is due to the presence of active compounds such as thymol. Thymol works by inhibiting certain enzymes responsible for the inflammatory process, which helps reduce the body's inflammatory responses (pain, redness, etc.). Finally, the flavonoids found in thyme have antioxidant properties and also help reduce inflammation by neutralising free radicals.

The anti-inflammatory benefits of thyme extend to various areas of health, such as stomach pain, urinary tract infections, bronchial congestion, and oral health issues.

Tip

If you have gingivitis and want to find relief before your dentist appointment, prepare a thyme-based mouthwash.

Boil 250 ml of water, add 1 teaspoon of thyme, then let it steep for 10 minutes before straining. This will give you a soothing homemade mouthwash that you can use several times a day.

Antibacterial Properties

Thyme is known for its powerful antibacterial properties, primarily attributed to the presence of thymol, an active compound specific to thyme.

In particular, it strengthens the immune system. Thymol works by disrupting the cell membranes of bacteria, contributing to their destruction. This antibacterial action of thymol enhances the immune system’s ability to fight bacterial infections, thereby supporting overall health.

In addition to infusions: Thyme can also be used as a sanitising agent in your home. By diffusing its essential oil* or making thyme-based disinfectant sprays, you can benefit from its antibacterial properties to purify the air and surfaces. This natural approach can help reduce the presence of pathogenic bacteria and create a healthier environment.

* Before using essential oils, please read the precautions for use.

Relieves respiratory problems

Thyme is renowned for its effectiveness in supporting respiratory health. Whether used in steam inhalation, as essential oils, or as a gargle, it acts as a: 

1. Natural expectorant: Thyme acts as a natural expectorant by helping to clear the airways. By inhaling thyme vapour or drinking thyme-based infusions, its active compounds will help thin bronchial secretions and facilitate their expulsion. Consuming thyme is particularly beneficial in cases of congestion caused by a respiratory infection.

2. Anti-inflammatory: Thyme’s anti-inflammatory properties, largely attributed to thymol, help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract. This can also help relieve related conditions such as bronchitis, pollen allergies, and asthma, while naturally easing breathing.

3. Antispasmodic: Thyme is also known for its antispasmodic properties, which can help relieve bronchial muscle spasms. This action helps soothe a productive cough and reduce respiratory tract irritation, restoring breathing comfort during a cold.

4. By incorporating thyme into your routine—whether through tea, steam inhalation, or adding it to meals—you can benefit from its properties to support respiratory health naturally. However, if your respiratory issues and sore throat persist, we recommend consulting a healthcare professional. Additionally, alternative treatments should never replace medical treatment in cases of more serious infections.

Promotes and aids digestion

Endowed with antispasmodic properties thanks to compounds such as thymol, it relaxes the muscles of the digestive tract, thereby relieving gastrointestinal spasms and abdominal cramps. This antispasmodic action of thyme is complemented by its carminative effect, which helps prevent excessive gas formation in the digestive system. By facilitating the expulsion of intestinal gas, thyme helps reduce bloating and certain digestive disorders.

Finally, thyme stimulates the production of digestive juices, including bile, which accelerates the breakdown of food in the stomach and promotes better digestion. Thyme can be a true ally in supporting healthy digestion.

Regular use in your diet—whether in cooking or as an herbal tea—allows you to fully enjoy its digestive benefits.

Thyme tea is the simplest, most practical, and safest way to enjoy all the benefits of thyme. With its expectorant, mucolytic, antiseptic, antiviral, decongestant, antispasmodic, and anti-inflammatory properties, it’s a versatile and comforting solution!

We recommend steeping 1 to 2 sprigs of thyme (or 1 to 2 g of dried herb) in a large cup of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes, 3 to 5 cups per day. During pregnancy, we recommend not exceeding one cup per day.

For a thyme, honey, and lemon infusion: steep a few sprigs of thyme in hot water for a few minutes. Then add honey to sweeten to taste and a slice of lemon for a touch of freshness. This infusion is appreciated for its pleasant taste, its benefits for the throat, and its soothing effect.

We do not recommend thyme tea for children under 2 years of age or for people with high blood pressure or allergies.

Thyme in the Kitchen

Thyme is a versatile herb that can be used to enhance the flavour of many dishes. Whether in soups, stews, barbecue marinades, or roasted meats, thyme will add a distinctly Mediterranean touch to your meals. With its camphor-like notes, sometimes slightly lemony, it also pairs perfectly with vegetable-based dishes as well as fish.

Thyme Essential Oil

Thyme essential oil is a powerful concentrate of this plant’s benefits. It is used in aromatherapy for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. A few drops of thyme essential oil in a diffuser can help purify the air and create a soothing atmosphere. However, it is essential to use it with caution and to follow the specific instructions for each thyme essential oil, as they each have specific precautions.  

• Provence Thujanol Thyme Essential Oil: Do not use during the first 3 months of pregnancy; internal use should be limited in both quantity and duration. Certain natural compounds in this essential oil may pose an allergy risk to some sensitive individuals when the essential oil is incorporated into a cosmetic formulation: limonene, linalool.

• Geraniol-rich Thyme essential oil from Provence: Do not use during pregnancy; use in diluted form on the skin. Certain natural compounds in this essential oil may pose an allergy risk to some sensitive individuals when the essential oil is incorporated into a cosmetic formulation: geraniol, linalool, limonene, citral (geranial and neral).

• Satureoid Thyme Essential Oil: Do not use on pregnant or breastfeeding women or on children. Dermocaustic: never use undiluted on the skin. Always use well-diluted for topical application (max 5% and for localized use). Very potent; use in low doses and for a limited duration. Internal use must be under therapeutic supervision. Certain natural compounds in this essential oil may pose an allergy risk to some sensitive individuals when the essential oil is incorporated into a cosmetic formulation: limonene, linalool. For any use in diffusion, this potent essential oil must be heavily diluted (max 5%) in other milder essential oils.

• Thymol-rich Thyme essential oil from Provence: Do not use on pregnant or breastfeeding women or on children. Dermocaustic: never use undiluted on the skin. Always use well-diluted for topical application (max 5% and for localized use). Very potent; use in low doses and for a limited duration. Internal use must be under therapeutic supervision. Certain natural compounds in this essential oil may pose an allergy risk to some sensitive individuals when the essential oil is incorporated into a cosmetic formulation: limonene, linalool. For any use in diffusion, this potent essential oil must be heavily diluted (max 5%) in other milder essential oils.

• Linalool Thyme essential oil from Provence: Do not use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Always use diluted on the skin. Certain natural compounds in this essential oil may pose an allergy risk to some sensitive individuals when the essential oil is incorporated into a cosmetic formulation: linalool and, to a lesser extent, limonene.

How to use it

• If oral use is not contraindicated: 1 drop on a sugar cube or in a spoonful of honey, 2 to 3 times a day for up to 5 days.

• Topical use: Dilution can range from 5% to 20% in a carrier oil, depending on the essential oil. Certain thyme essential oils are dermocaustic. It is essential to research thoroughly before use.

• For inhalation, if diffusion is permitted for the essential oil used : 4 to 5 drops in a bowl of very hot water; inhale 2 to 3 times a day for a maximum of 5 days.

Organic Linalool Thyme Essential Oil

The gentle anti-infective: Anti-infective of choice, linalool thyme essential oil is ideal for fighting a wide range of pathogens. Antibacterial and antiviral, linalool thyme essential oil is effective in combating infections that cause coughs.

Bonus: Useful for a weakened immune system, linalool thyme essential oil provides a boost and strengthens the body to overcome dry, persistent coughs.

Discover Organic Linalool Thyme Essential Oil

WARNING

Pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as children under 6 years of age, should not use this product without prior medical advice. 

Before using essential oils, please read the precautions for use.

Thyme Hydrosol

Thyme hydrosol, also known as thyme floral water, is a product derived from the distillation of thyme leaves. It can be used in various ways due to its skin-beneficial properties and potential soothing effects.

Thyme hydrosol can be used as a facial toner. Gently mist the hydrosol onto clean skin to balance the pH, soothe the skin, and prepare it for the application of other skincare products. Thanks to its antimicrobial properties, it may also help with mild to moderate acne by helping the skin get rid of bacteria more quickly. 

Organic Linalool Thyme Hydrosol

Purifying and balancing, this hydrosol is ideal for preparing skincare products for blemish-prone and acne-prone skin. It can also be used to prepare mouthwashes and treatments for combination and oily hair.

Bonus: Very useful for oily skin, thyme’s antibacterial properties will help dry out the T-zone.

Discover Organic Linalool Thyme Hydrosol

Beauty Tip

You can use thyme hydrosol to reduce dark circles and treat tired eyes. Soak 2 cotton pads in the hydrosol, then place them in the refrigerator (in a sealed bag) for 1 to 2 hours. Apply them to your eyes to soothe and reduce puffiness. Enjoy a fresh, rested look! 

How much should you consume daily?

For an herbal tea, we recommend drinking no more than 5 cups per day.

When it comes to essential oils, be mindful of the quantity, as they are highly concentrated and therefore much stronger than an infusion or hydrosol. We recommend referring to the product’s technical data sheet or consulting your doctor.

If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have liver problems, we recommend consulting a doctor before consuming thyme.

It is recommended not to exceed the recommended doses, whether in the form of fresh or dried herb or essential oil. As with any medicinal plant, moderation is key to ensuring safe and effective use.

Despite its many benefits, thyme may not be suitable for everyone. It is not recommended for people allergic to plants in the Lamiaceae family.

Additionally, pregnant women and people suffering from severe gastrointestinal disorders should consult a healthcare professional before incorporating thyme into their daily routine.

Finally, while thyme tea is beneficial for your health, it should never replace medical treatment.

Laura is a health, beauty, and lifestyle writer. Passionate about travel and gastronomy, she shares her nutrition tips to help you combine pleasure with well-being. Through her articles, she is committed to providing you with meaningful information and practical advice to nourish your body and mind.