Thyme
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
Brief Background: Thyme has been used medicinally for thousands of years. Beyond its common culinary application, it has been recommended for a myriad of indications, based upon proposed antimicrobial, antitussive, spasmolytic and antioxidant activity.
Thymol, one of the constituents of thyme, is contained in antiseptic mouthwashes, with limited clinical studies in the available literature to corroborate its efficacy as a monotherapy in dental outcomes, such as reductions in plaque formation, gingivitis and caries.
Expert Opinion and Historic Precedent:
Thyme leaf is renowned for being a culinary spice and has also been used cosmetically and medicinally. Traditional uses of thyme include for coughs and upper respiratory congestion, symptoms of bronchitis, whooping cough, and catarrh (inflammation of upper respiratory tract mucous membranes).
Topically, thymol (a major constituent of thyme), has been used for various bacterial infections. Recent studies of combination products including thymol, such as Listerine®, have shown antibacterial activity when used as a mouthwash to reduce oral bacteria.
Experts have recommended the use of thymol in treatment of actinomycosis, onycholysis (separation or loosening of a fingernail or toenail from its nail bed), and paronychia (inflammation of the tissue surrounding a fingernail or toenail) due to its antifungal properties. Anecdotal reports of successful healing date to the 1960s.
Thyme was believed to provide vigor and is a stimulant, antioxidant, and is known for treating eczema. Eliminates scalp itching and flaking caused by candidiasis.
Thyme helps to increase brain function and is considered to be a valuable anti-ageing herb. It has been researched extensively, and has been found to protect the heart, brain and kidney cell membranes. It causes DHA (an omega-3 fatty acid) to increase and research highlights the value of including thyme in the diet for all age groups – including the elderly for brain function and for children with attention deficit disorders.
