Subject: Thyme
Date: Sat, 18 Aug 2001 20:48:47 +0100 ***
COMMON NAME (English/German): Thyme/Thymian
LATIN NAME: Thymus vulgaris (thymus citriodorus)
TYPE OF PLANT: perennial
SYMBOLISM: Greek--style and elegance, Middle Ages--chivalry;
France--Republican spirit; today--daring
MYTHS/LEGENDS: Especially good home for fairies.
- MEDICINAL: Oil of some species used in some mouthwashes and
disinfectants; effective against salmonella, staph, strep and
other germs. For infections and inflammation, mastitis, fever,
digestive ailments, gastrointestinal complaints, coughs, congested
lungs, asthma, headaches, nervous conditions.
- The essential oil of thyme is thymol. If taken in pure form,
it can cause such adverse symptoms as dizziness, diarrhea, nausea,
headache, vomiting and muscular weakness. It can also have a
depressing effect on the heart, respiration and body temperature,
and can overstimulate the thyroid gland. For internal use, take in
moderation.
- bath: antiseptic and stimulating
- cosmetic: Used in aftershave lotions, soaps, etc.
-
- EDIBLE: Vital for clam chowder!!! Goes with nearly everything.
Lemon thyme is especially great with chicken or fish.
- Herb oil--oregano, thyme, garlic with olive oil.
- Tea blend--thyme, sassafras and strawberry leaf; lemongrass,
rosemary and thyme
CULTIVATION
- zones: 5-9
- soil pH and composition: light, pH 6.3
- planting time: ADFP
- bloom time: June-July
- sun and water: full sun to partial shade, dry, well-drained
- companions/threats: Benefits eggplant, potato, tomato. Repels
cabbage looper, cabbage worm, whitefly. Danger from root rot,
fungal diseases, spider mites.
HARVESTING AND STORAGE: Fresh--take small amounts as needed. Cut
about 2-inches above the ground. Hang in bunches or dry leaves on a
screen. Can also be frozen.
ETC.: Great in potpourri, especially lemon thyme.
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***Excerpted from my original
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