Thyme – sources, health benefits, nutrients, uses and constituents at NaturalPedia.com

Saturday, July 08, 2017 by Earl Garcia

Thyme is among the most popular herbs to date, thanks largely to its versatility and characteristic penetrating aroma. The delicate herb is a staple in French cooking and is primarily used, along with parsley and bay leaf, as a flavoring to stocks. Aside from its culinary use, thyme is highly valued for its many health benefits. Thyme is native to Asia, southern Europe, and the Mediterranean region.

List of known nutrients

An article posted on the health and wellness website Nutrition and You enumerates the herb’s known nutrients, which include:

Beta-Carotene
Calcium
Folates
Iron
Magnesium
Manganese
Manganese
Niacin
Pantothenic Acid
Potassium
Pyridoxine
Riboflavin
Sodium
Thiamin
Vitamin A
Vitamin C
Zinc

Medicinal uses for thyme

Thyme is best known for its beneficial effects on the heart and the circulatory system. The potassium in thyme acts as a vasodilator that relaxes blood vessels, reduces cardiovascular stress, and lowers blood pressure levels. This in turn reduces the odds of suffering from atherosclerosis, strokes, heart attacks, and coronary heart disease. On the other hand, the rich iron supply in thyme promotes red blood cell production. As a result, thyme boosts overall circulation and oxygenation of important systems and extremities in the body. Aside from this, a previous study revealed that the fragrant herb helps lower cholesterol levels.

Likewise, thyme is highly valued for its respiratory health benefits. Thyme contains expectorant properties that rid the respiratory tract of phlegm and mucus. The flavorful herb also contains an anti-inflammatory agent that relieves inflammation and prevents microbacterial development in the respiratory tract. Thus, thyme is especially effective in fending off a host of respiratory disorders such as bronchitis, chronic asthma, congestion and colds as well as flu, blocked sinuses, and seasonal allergies.

In addition, thyme is touted for its high antioxidant content that fortifies the body’s immune system. The phenolic antioxidants found in thyme are touted to counter the harmful effects of free radicals and prevent oxidative stress. Likewise, the herb’s rich vitamin C supply is found to boost white blood cell production and improve the body’s overall immunity. The high vitamin C content in thyme is also essential in collagen production, which facilitates cell repair. Additionally, the herb is touted for its potent anti-fungal properties that helps keep fungal and viral infections in check.

Moreover, the flavorful herb is touted for its beneficial effects on the nervous system. Thyme is notably high in vitamin B6, which works on certain neurotransmitters in the brain to alleviate stress. Incorporating thyme to diet plans may help improve mood and relieve stressful thoughts. Furthermore, thyme is an excellent source of carotenoids and vitamin A that promote eye health. Carotenoids are known to combat free radicals in the ocular system and delay the onset of macular degeneration. The carotenoids in thyme are also found to prevent cataract formation.

Body systems supported by thyme

Thyme is known for its beneficial effects on the heart and the circulatory system. Likewise, the herb is particularly effective in maintaining healthy respiratory, immune, and nervous systems. Thyme’s carotenoid content also ensures a healthy ocular system.

Ways to use thyme

Thyme works well with bean, egg and, vegetable dishes. Likewise, thyme is an incredible flavoring to meat and poultry diseases, as well as soups and baked goods. Aside from this, thyme serves as a staple to various vinaigrette recipes.