Nutritional Profile
Thyme is an aromatic culinary herb loaded with nutrients. It is exceptionally high in vitamin A and vitamin C, and also supplies B-complex vitamins, vitamin K, E and folate . A 100 g serving of fresh thyme provides about 160 mg vitamin C (≈266% DV) and 17.5 mg iron (≈218% DV) . The herb’s leaves also contain significant amounts of potassium, calcium, magnesium, manganese and selenium . Thyme’s rich antioxidant content (flavonoids such as luteolin, thymonin, etc.) gives it a very high ORAC value (~27,426 μmol Trolox Equivalents/100 g) , indicating strong free-radical scavenging capacity.
Key nutritional facts (per 100 g fresh thyme) include:
These nutrients support overall health. For example, vitamin A is important for vision and mucous membranes, vitamin C for immunity, and iron for red blood cell formation .
Medicinal Properties
Thyme contains potent bioactive compounds (chiefly thymol and carvacrol) that give it multiple medicinal actions . It is broadly antimicrobial: laboratory studies show thyme oil effectively inhibits many bacteria, fungi and even some viruses . Traditional remedies rely on this antiseptic action for infections of the respiratory tract, throat, and skin. Thyme is also anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic. In vitro research found thyme extract can down-regulate inflammatory pathways (reducing NF-κB and pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-8) in human lung cells . Herbalists have long used thyme to relax bronchial spasms and ease coughing – it is listed as an expectorant and antitussive in pharmacopoeias. Additionally, thyme’s antioxidant polyphenols help neutralize free radicals . Some studies even note anticancer effects in cell models, attributed to thymol/carvacrol, although clinical evidence is lacking . In sum, thyme’s “multi-pharmacological” profile includes antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer and strong antimicrobial properties .
Traditional Uses (Herbal Medicine)
Thyme has a long history in folk and herbal medicine. Ancient cultures used it widely: for example, ancient Egyptians embalmed with thyme and Greeks burned it as incense for courage . European herbal traditions (e.g. the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia) recommend thyme for respiratory ailments – bronchitis, bronchial catarrh, whooping cough and sore throat . Herbalists traditionally made thyme teas or syrups to soothe colds and chest congestion. A 2016 review notes thyme’s folk uses as an expectorant, mucolytic, antitussive and antispasmodic .
Thyme was also used for digestive support. It is considered a carminative and stomachic: tea of thyme leaves was taken to relieve colic, gas, bloating and dyspepsia . Its bitter components may stimulate appetite and gastric secretions. In France and other regions, thyme was used in remedies for liver and stomach complaints . Overall, thyme’s traditional uses center on the respiratory and digestive systems, as a calming and antiseptic herb .
Clinical Evidence and Modern Applications
In modern herbal medicine, thyme’s primary evidence-based use is for productive coughs. The European Medicines Agency’s Herbal Monograph concludes that, based on long-standing use, thyme preparations are suitable for “productive (chesty) coughs associated with colds” . This consensus comes despite limited formal trials – one small clinical study found thyme syrup as effective as bromhexine (a cough expectorant drug) for acute bronchitis . Beyond cough, few rigorous human trials exist. Some animal studies suggest thyme extracts may lower blood pressure and cholesterol , but these findings await clinical confirmation. Laboratory research supports thyme’s traditional claims: numerous in vitro studies confirm its broad antimicrobial and antioxidant activity . In sum, modern medicine recognizes thyme mainly as a traditional herbal remedy for coughs , and laboratory studies provide plausible support for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Effects by Body System
Scientific Studies
Laboratory and animal studies underpin many of thyme’s reported effects. For instance, in vitro tests have repeatedly shown that thyme oil kills bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas, and fungi like Candida . Antioxidant assays confirm that thyme extracts quench free radicals more effectively than many other herbs . The anti-inflammatory effect of thyme has been demonstrated in cell models (e.g. human bronchial cells) where thyme extract suppressed inflammatory markers . A 2018 review noted thyme’s bioactivities and called for more clinical research. On the clinical side, a small trial saw thyme preparation improve bronchitis symptoms similarly to bromhexine . Despite promising lab results, few large-scale human trials exist. The EMA’s endorsement of thyme for cough is based on traditional use (≥30 years) rather than “modern” clinical trials . In summary, existing studies support thyme’s pharmacological potential (antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, etc.) , but more human research is needed to fully validate its health effects.
Side Effects and Contraindications
Thyme is generally safe when used in culinary amounts or as directed in herbal remedies. However, precautions include:
In summary, thyme is safe for most people in normal amounts, but care should be taken in those with known sensitivities, young children, or certain medical conditions. Always follow product directions or professional advice.
Sources: Authoritative reviews and studies were used, including a 2022 Nutrients journal review , regulatory monographs , herbal pharmacopeia data , and relevant research articles . These provide the basis for thyme’s nutritional facts, pharmacological properties, traditional uses, and safety profile.