Thyme is a very practical and powerful ally. It’s antiviral properties make is invaluable during the fall and winter months when children tend to bring more than their homework back from school. It is also useful on many kinds of infections and as a stimulant for body and mind.
Red Thyme is the focus of this article but Thyme Linalol can be used in the same manner.
The properties of Thyme: (see Herbal Terms page for meanings of words)
Analgesic, anthelminthic, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, bactericidal, carminative, cell proliferant, deodorant, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, insecticide, parasiticide, rubefacient, stimulant, tonic, vermifuge
Uses for Thyme include:
Physical: Helps bacterial infections, urinary infections, rheumatism, viral infections, lethargy, sores, wounds, insect bites, lice, scabies, and lung ailments. It is useful as a stimulant for the immune system and as a tonic.
Emotional and Mental: Counteracts lack of direction, intellectual or physical exhaustion, weakness, over-reactivity, nervous debility and blockages.
Nourishes fortification, tolerance, courage, support, decisiveness, alertness, focus, concentration and warmth.
Spiritual and Energetic: Thyme is an herb belonging to the element of Water and is in tune with the planetary energies of Venus. When added to food, it helps the consumer to regain a sense of joy and childlike wonder. It brings courage and valor when worn, and is very good at protecting the home from illness, vermin, and unwanted guests when burned.
This herb is a traditional fairy plant, and can be grown to attract them, or used in rituals to honor them.
Applications of Thyme Oil: (Never use essential oils internally unless instructed by a qualified health care professional)
Handkerchief/Tissue: add one or two drops of the oil on a tissue or handkerchief and sniff often. This method is useful for the emotional and mental problems listed above, as well as infections, lethargy and lung ailments.
Vapor: add 1-2 drops into a bowl of hot water and inhale the vapors deeply through the nose for one minute (be sure to close your eyes to avoid irritation.) This method is useful for the emotional and mental problems listed above, as well as infections, lethargy and lung ailments.
Massage Oil: add a maximum 3 drops per teaspoon of carrier oil and massage over the affected area. This method is helpful for bug bites, scabies, lice, rheumatism, and infections.
Baths: add a maximum of 3 drops to a warm bath and soak for at least ten minutes, breathing deeply and relaxing. This method is useful for the emotional and mental problems listed above, as well as infections, lethargy and lung ailments.
Showers: wash as normal then add 2 drops to your washcloth, luffa, or sponge and rub over yourself briskly while standing under the running water. Breathe Deeply. This method is useful for the emotional and mental problems listed above, as well as infections, lethargy and lung ailments.
Diffusers: add 1-3 drops to a diffuser and light the candle, or turn the diffuser on. Sit, relax, and breathe deeply for one minute. This method is useful for the emotional and mental problems listed above, as well as infections, lethargy and lung ailments, and to help sanitize the air.
Humidifiers: add 3 drops to the water added into a humidifier. This method is useful for the emotional and mental problems listed above, as well as infections, lethargy and lung ailments, and to help sanitize the air.
Contraindications: Avoid in hypertension and while pregnant or breast-feeding. May cause skin irritation. Do not use Red Thyme with children; Thyme Linalol is the safer option.
Information Pulled From:
The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy by Valerie Ann Worwood
The Fragrant Mind by Valerie Ann Worwood
Aromatherapy a Lifetime Guide to Healing with Essential Oils by Valerie Gennari Cooksley
The Master Book of Herbalism by Paul Beyerl
Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs by Scott Cunningham
Whispers of the Earth 