Thyme is any of several species of culinary and medicinal herbs of the genus Thymus, most commonly known as Thymus vulgaris.

Thyme was used by the ancient Egyptians for embalming. The ancient Greeks used it in their baths. Thymus was burnt in their temples as an incense. It was believed to be a source of courage.

The spread of thyme throughout Europe was probably brought about by the Romans. They used it to purify their rooms and to “give an aromatic flavour to cheese and liqueurs”.

During Middle Ages, the herb was placed beneath pillows to aid deep sleep and to ward off nightmares. Women would give knights and warriors gifts that included thyme leaves since it was believed to bring courage to the bearer.

Thyme was used as incense and placed on the coffins during the funerals. It was supposed to assure the dead person safe passage into the next life.

Thyme is a vital ingredient and common component of the herbes de provence and bouquet garni. Thyme is sold both fresh and dried. The fresh form has more flavor but is less convenient to use. Its storage life is rarely more than a week.

The summer-seasonal, fresh greenhouse thyme is often available year round. Fresh thyme is commonly sold in bunches of sprigs. A sprig is a single stem snipped from the plant.

A recipe may measure thyme by the bunch, or by the sprig, or by the tablespoon or teaspoon. Dried thyme is widely used in Armenia in teas. It is perfectly acceptable to substitute dried for whole thyme.

Leaves may be removed from stems either by scraping with the back of a knife, or by pulling through the fingers or tines of a fork. Thyme retains its flavor on drying much better than many other herbs.

Oil of thyme, or the essential oil of common thyme contains 20 to 54% Thymol. Thymol is the main active ingredient in various mouthwashes. In the past the oil of thyme was used to medicate bandages.

Thymol has also been shown to be effective against various fungal infections affecting the toe nails. Thymol can also be found as the active ingredient in some all-natural, alcohol-free hand sanitizers.

A tea made by infusing the herb in water can be used to treat bronchitis and coughs.