Useful properties of thyme for the body and use in traditional medicine
Medicinal plants have long attracted the attention of people who care about their health. The beneficial properties of thyme, an amazing gift from Mother Nature, are especially admired. Miniature foliage and lots of pretty buds contain a huge amount of chemicals. Correct use of the ingredients opens the door to a healthy life on earth. Despite its popularity, for many it remains a mystery what thyme is and “what it is eaten with”.
City dwellers may have never seen it grow in nature. How it is collected, dried, and then used for treatment. Let's try to get acquainted with this unique plant. We find out its external features, chemical composition and benefits for the body. In conclusion, we will consider the methods of preparing decoctions and methods of use in the treatment of specific diseases.
Biological information about thyme
The leaf plates have an oblong elliptical shape, the edges of which are decorated with delicate white fibers. They are colored deep green. Every year from June to August, buds appear on the tops of the shoots. They are the ones who tell people everything about thyme. The petals are colored pink or purple. After successful pollination, fruits are formed, which are dark brown barrels about 6 mm long. They resemble a miniature ellipse in shape.
The plant has several names:
- thyme;
- mountain thyme;
- Bogorodskaya grass;
- Crimean incense.
There are about 150 types of thyme, which differ from each other not only in appearance, but also in the chemical composition of useful components. In its natural environment, thyme is found on rocky slopes, forest glades and sandy steppes.
Residents know him:
- Transbaikalia;
- Ukraine;
- Belarus;
- Russia;
- Kazakhstan.
In folk medicine, the terrestrial part of the culture is used. It is carefully cut with secateurs during the period of lush flowering. Lignified elements are thrown away. The plant is laid out in the shade in a thin layer and, periodically turning over, dried. Well-ventilated areas, attics, sheds and sheds are suitable. The main thing is that the temperature reaches 35 ° C. The finished product is thoroughly crushed, removing coarse elements. As you can see, thyme is a unique herb worthy of our attention. Let's get acquainted with its mysterious internal composition.
The plant is also harvested, in small bouquets, which are hung in a closed dry room.
Pantry of valuable items
The amazing healing properties of thyme are hidden in its chemical composition.
Under the microscope, scientists saw many valuable compounds:
- vitamins of group A, B, C, K, E, PP;
- potassium;
- magnesium;
- calcium;
- sodium;
- phosphorus;
- iron;
- zinc.
This is just a basic set of components. The culture contains a valuable essential oil rich in carvacrol and thymol. Each substance has powerful bactericidal properties, which is important for the body.The presence of tannins, flavonoid pigments, oleanolic and ursolic acids in the grass is admirable. After all, they have a beneficial effect on the endocrine system, keep muscle tissue in good shape and stimulate the metabolic process.
The energy value of thyme is determined by the amount of carbohydrates (approximately 64 g per 100 g of dry product), proteins (9.1 g) and fat (7.4 g).
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Useful properties of thyme and common diseases
Due to its unique composition, the herb has a high level of biological activity. Therefore, it is used to treat various diseases. The antiseptic properties of thyme help the body fight inflammation in the airways. Chemical compounds destroy harmful microbes that actively multiply in the bronchi. The presence of thymol in thyme leaves makes it possible to neutralize antibiotic-resistant fungi.
The beneficial properties of thyme are especially evident in tinctures. They are used in the treatment of chronic cough when it is necessary to remove phlegm. Under the influence of chemical compounds contained in the medicinal fluid, the secretion of the glands of the bronchial tree is stimulated. Regular consumption of thyme tincture helps to get rid of cough for a long time.
When stomatitis occurs in the oral cavity, frequent rinsing with a decoction of aromatic herbs helps. Throat diseases are treated with inhalation using alcohol tincture. The unique properties of thyme contribute to the rapid relief of pain, the destruction of germs and a successful recovery.
Dermatological problems are solved with the help of decoctions prepared on the basis of aromatic herbs. They are used in the treatment of:
- boils;
- purulent wounds;
- acne;
- various kinds of ulcers.
As a rule, wounds are washed with a solution or compresses are applied. Active substances kill pathogenic microbes and do not give them a chance to recover. What a wonderful and useful property of thyme is hidden in the humble earthy grass!
Tincture of thyme is often prescribed in the treatment of gastritis, colon and flatulence.
The components that make up the herb normalize the natural microflora of the digestive system. As a result, the patients develop appetite and recover quickly.
Since thyme has the ability to relieve pain, it is prescribed for such diseases:
- radiculitis;
- neuralgia;
- migraine;
- neuritis.
Tea made from thyme twigs can help relieve stress. It is drunk in case of depression, insomnia and obsessive anxiety.
Despite the wide range of uses and benefits of thyme for the body, you should consult your doctor before use.
Simple recipes for a healing potion
Traditional healers actively use thyme to fight various diseases.
They offer simple options for preparing a potion from plant elements:
- foliage;
- inflorescences;
- shoots.
Each individual case uses its own dosage and use of thyme in traditional medicine. Consider specific diseases and ways to treat them at home.
Useful properties of thyme for the respiratory system
Pharyngitis and sore throat are treated with a rinse tincture. It is made from dry herb. Pour 10 g of raw materials into a clean glass. Pour boiling water over. Cover with a lid and a towel. Insist 15 minutes. Strain and rinse the mouth.
For the treatment of chronic bronchitis, the drug is prepared in a different way. Pour 20 g of dry thyme into a thermos. Pour hot water (500 ml). Insist for about 2 hours. They are filtering. It is taken orally 3 times a day after meals.
The adult dose is 1 tablespoon. For children, 1 teaspoon is enough.
Digestive organs
To restore the natural microflora, a simple drink is prepared. Put 2 tablespoons of chopped thyme in a thermos. Pour boiling water (0.5 l). Mix well. Close and leave for about 2.5 hours.Take before meals 2 times a day. The minimum dose for adults is 250 g. You can take food only after 40 minutes. The effect comes after regular use of the drink after 2 months.
The broth also helps with cholecystitis. It is prepared from 10 g of dry herb filled with hot water. Insist 30 minutes. Strain and drink on an empty stomach, 50 g three times a day.
In chronic gastritis, thyme infusion is consumed in 15 ml before meals.
Useful properties of thyme for eye ailments
With the help of tincture, cataracts are successfully treated if the early stage of the disease is recorded.
The tincture is prepared according to the following recipe:
- chopped thyme herb (100 g);
- honey (0.5 l);
- water bath.
The ingredients are thoroughly mixed in an enamel bowl. Set up a water bath. The drug is heated on low heat for 1 hour, continuously stirring the mass.
Take the medicine 1 teaspoon just before bedtime. Store in the refrigerator.
Headache and neurological disorders
Thyme tea will help get rid of severe migraines. Pour 1 tablespoon of the herb into a glass. Pour boiling water over. The drug is insisted for 40 minutes. Filter and drink during painful attacks.
After a stroke, traditional healers offer a tincture of thyme buds with vodka. You will need 30 g of dry inflorescences and 0.5 liters of vodka or alcohol. The components are combined in a glass jar. Cover with a nylon lid. Placed in a dark, cool room for 14 days. It is taken orally 35 drops after meals. If necessary, use for rubbing parts of the body that are paralyzed.
A drink prepared according to this recipe will help to restore the work of the brain after an injury:
- chopped thyme components (2 tablespoons);
- boiled hot water (0.5 l).
The components are thoroughly mixed in a refractory container. Put on a moderate heat. Bring to a boil and remove immediately from the stove. Cover with a lid. Wrap up and insist for at least an hour. Then the drink is filtered through a thin cotton cloth. Take 3 tablespoons before meals. The course of treatment is prescribed depending on the severity of the injury.
You cannot take the drink without consulting a specialist.
Neuroses and insomnia are treated with a simple decoction prepared in a thermos. For 250 g of hot water, 15 g of dry thyme is enough. After 30 minutes, the finished drink is filtered using clean gauze. It is taken orally 30 ml 2 times a day. And before going to bed - 60 ml.
A soothing decoction is prepared by mixing the following herbs:
- thyme;
- oregano;
- hop;
- clarity;
- Chernobyl;
- drop cap.
Each component is taken in 15 g. Pour 0.5 liters of boiled hot water. Insist for about 45 minutes. Filter through cheesecloth. Drink 50 ml in the morning, 100 ml in the evening.
Alcoholism treatment
Addiction to alcoholic beverages occurs not only in mature men. She mercilessly "beats" women and inexperienced youth. There are various methods of dealing with alcoholism, including folk methods.
The tincture is prepared in the classical way. Dry raw materials (15 g) are poured with boiling water (500 ml). Put on a water bath. Steam for about 15 minutes, stirring continuously. Remove from fire. Insist 1 hour. If necessary, dilute with boiled water to obtain a volume of 500 ml.
Take 50 g of the drug, washed down with 1 tablespoon of vodka. Thanks to this treatment regimen, a person develops an aversion to alcohol.
Thymol, contained in thyme, forms an explosive mixture with alcohol. It causes nausea and sometimes vomiting.
Useful properties of thyme in cosmetics and cooking
For many women, external beauty is an important aspect of self-affirmation in society. It is for them that there are medicinal decoctions of aromatic thyme.
A set of herbs is placed in a refractory container:
- thyme;
- birch leaves;
- nettles;
- hops (cones).
You should get about 20 g of dry raw materials.Next, the herbs are poured with hot water (0.5 l) and boiled for about 20 minutes over low heat. When the broth cools down, rub it into the scalp 2 times a week or rinse washed hair.
Thyme is an original spice for various meat dishes. It is added to sauces, marinades, drinks, and is also used in fish breading. In the East, chopped thyme is sprinkled on various vegetable salads and cheeses.
Seasoning liquid dishes with seasoning 15 minutes before cooking. Meat and fish are in the cooking process. Sprinkle salads a few minutes before serving for dinner.
Precautions for using thyme
Like any medicine, thyme has contraindications that are important to consider.
First of all, doctors do not recommend taking herbal tinctures for people who:
- increased acidity;
- peptic ulcer of the digestive tract;
- disruption of the kidneys and liver;
- enlarged thyroid gland;
- chronic constipation;
- atherosclerosis of the vessels of the head.
In addition, pregnant women are prohibited from taking tinctures. And also treat children under 2 years of age with thyme decoctions. In case of an overdose, a rash appears on the skin in the form of small acne. For some people, the tincture causes severe nausea and even vomiting. Therefore, you should not tempt fate to bite your elbows later.
Now you, dear reader, know the beneficial properties of thyme and how it can be used in traditional medicine. The unique chemical formula of the plant opens the way to the restoration of health. Simple recipes for decoctions and tinctures are easy to make at home. The schemes for the use of medicinal drugs are prescribed by experts. Therefore, you should not start treatment without consulting a doctor. After all, herbs are equated with chemicals that are used in traditional medicine.