Fresh Thyme tastes so good on pizza and pasta.  It reminds me of the sunny hills of Italy. It is an ancient evergreen herb that originated in the Mediterranean and Egypt.  Romans used it in their food and gave it to soldiers as a sign of admiration and courage.  The Egyptians used it as an embalming aid.  Both recognized its medicinal properties. There are more than 300 types of thyme, all loaded with calcium, iron, manganese, and the vitamins A, B6, and C making it a nutrient powerhouse.  Here are just a few of its additional benefits:

Anti-inflammatory – A university study found that thyme tincture was most effective in treating inflammation conditions like acne, rheumatoid arthritis, and asthma.

Anti-bacterial – Thyme oil responded strongly to staph and other bacterial infections.  Researchers find that a thyme tincture is an effective treatment for acne in place of benzoyl peroxide.

Heart Health – Thyme’s nutrients reduce blood pressure and may protect against hypertension.

Respiratory Health – Thyme tea has been found to help with a sore throat and cough.

Mood Booster – Carvacrol, a compound in thyme oil was found to boost dopamine and serotonin levels when consumed over seven days.

Oral Health – Thyme’s essential oils protect against organisms that are found in the mouth.

Sleep Aid – Thyme tea is useful in combating insomnia.

Bug Repellant – Thymol, a compound in thyme, actively repels mosquitos.  Four drops of thyme oil per teaspoon of olive oil mixed together and rubbed on your skin will keep the mosquitos away.

Cancer – A study conducted in Turkey using wild thyme found that it caused cell death in breast cancer cells.  Another study from Portugal found that mastic thyme might be a protector against colon cancer.

Food Protector – Researchers report in Food Microbiology that thyme oil not only decontaminated lettuce but can prevent contamination of food as well.