Thymus Capitatus
Family: Labiatae
English: Thyme
A symbol of power with invigorating qualities both for the mind and body. A small, compact shrublet with pink or whitish flowers growing on dry slopes and rocks in the Mediterranean. It adds colour to drab hills and attracts the bees like a magnet.
Its ancient name "Thymus" comes from the Greek verb θύω meaning sacrifice. In the stock of incenses burnt on altars in ancient Greece were included fresh thyme leaves.
In ancient Greece the poor would consume an infusion made from thyme, honey and vinegar, while the elderly would drink large quantities of thyme tea to invigorate their mental faculties. Cretans used to rub their gums with thyme to treat gingivitis. Today research has proved that gurgles with thyme tea is recommended for gingivitis, sore throats and acute cough. In addition, thyme kills germs!! Its two basic volatile oils, thymole and carvacole, renders thyme quite practical for antibacterial and antimicotic applications.
Thyme infusions are soothing, aid digestion, comfort the stomach and relieve anxiety while they pep up the immune system. Bathing in thyme water is recommended for those suffering from rheumatism. Thyme cataplasms are excellent for treating wounds and itching from insect bites.
Greek cuisine makes good use of thyme's aromatic qualities in meatballs, stuffed vegetables, meat dishes, poultry and pies. In Cyprus there is a recipe for rabbit where the meat is placed on the grill over entire roots of thyme.
Popular Greek names:
"Thimos", "Thimary", "Throubi".
