Thyme
A Mediterranean herb used in cooking, medicine, and ornament.
Thyme is a culinary herb consisting of the dried aerial parts of some members of the genus Thymus of flowering plants in the mint family Lamiaceae. Thymes are native to Mediterranean countries in North Africa, the Levant, and Southern Europe, and have culinary, medicinal, and ornamental uses. The species most commonly cultivated for culinary purposes is Thymus vulgaris, native to Southeast Europe.
- field
- Culinary herb, medicinal plant, ornamental plant
- native_region
- Mediterranean countries in North Africa, Levant, and Southern Europe
- most_cultivated_species
- Thymus vulgaris (common thyme)
- known_for
- Culinary use, antiseptic properties, historical use in embalming and incense
Lore & Background
Wild thyme grows in the Levant, where it might have been first cultivated. Ancient Egyptians used common thyme for embalming. The ancient Greeks used it in their baths and burnt it as incense in their temples, believing it was a source of courage. The spread of thyme throughout Europe was thought to be done by Romans, as they used it to purify their rooms and to give an aromatic flavour to cheese and liqueurs. In the European Middle Ages, the herb was placed beneath pillows to aid sleep and ward off nightmares. Women often gave knights and warriors gifts that included thyme leaves, as it was believed to bring courage to the bearer. Thyme was also used as incense and placed on coffins during funerals, as it was supposed to assure passage into the next life.
Reader's Guide
Thyme is a common component of the bouquet garni and herbes de Provence. It is sold both fresh and dried; the fresh form is more flavourful but less convenient, while dried thyme retains its flavour better than many other herbs. Fresh thyme is commonly sold in bunches of sprigs, and a recipe may measure thyme by the bunch, sprig, or spoon. The chemical composition of thyme includes essential oils such as thymol and carvacrol, which have antiseptic properties. Thymol has been historically used as an antibiotic and antiseptic, and is an active ingredient in mouthwashes like Listerine. Thyme also contains flavonoids, phenolic acids, triterpenes, tannins, and saponins. Important species include Thymus citriodorus (lemon thymes), Thymus herba-barona (caraway thyme), Thymus praecox (mother of thyme), Thymus pseudolanuginosus (woolly thyme), Thymus serpyllum (wild thyme), and Thymus vulgaris (common thyme). Thyme is best cultivated in a hot, sunny location with well-drained soil, and tolerates drought well.
Did You Know?
- Ancient Egyptians used common thyme for embalming.
- The name of the fish genus Thymallus, given to the grayling by Carl Linnaeus, originates from the faint smell of thyme that emanates from the flesh.
- Thymol, a major component of thyme essential oil, is an active ingredient in Listerine mouthwash.
- Wild thyme is an important nectar source plant for honeybees, and both Greece and Malta are famous for wild thyme honey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is Thyme?
Thyme is a small aromatic herb in the mint family (Lamiaceae), and what you actually use in the kitchen is the dried stems and leaves of plants in the genus Thymus. It's one of the most versatile Mediterranean seasonings to keep on hand.
Where is Thyme originally from?
It's native to the broader Mediterranean region, including parts of North Africa, the Levant, and Southern Europe. The species most home cooks know, Thymus vulgaris, traces its roots specifically to Southeast Europe.
What makes Thyme stand out in the kitchen?
Beyond its warm, slightly floral flavor in soups, stews, and roasted meats, thyme has long been valued for its natural antiseptic qualities. It also shows up in ancient traditions, where it was burned as incense and used in embalming practices.
Which thyme should I buy for cooking?
Common thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is the go-to choice for most recipes and the species most widely cultivated for culinary purposes. It's the one you'll typically find labeled simply as 'thyme' in spice aisles.
Is Thyme only for cooking?
Not at all — it also serves as a medicinal plant and a popular ornamental in gardens. Its compact, fragrant growth makes it a favorite for border plantings and small herb gardens around the Mediterranean.
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