Thyme contains potent anti-viral properties and is essential for Epstein Barr, Shingles, Hepatitis, Influenza, Herpes, Cytomegalovirus, HPV, etc. If taken on a regular basis it can significantly help to reduce the viral load in the body which makes it highly beneficial for those suffering with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, Vertigo, Tinnitus, and Multiple Sclerosis.
Thyme also helps stimulate memory, ease headaches and muscle tension, soothe coughs, relieve fevers, and fight colds and infections. It also contains a compound called carvacrol which is an excellent natural tranquilizer and has a tonic effect on the entire nervous system. Thyme is a good source of pyridoxine which is known to play an important role in manufacturing GABA levels in the brain, aid in regulating sleep patterns, and benefit neurotransmitter function in the brain. GABA is also one of the best natural defenses against stress damage.
Thyme is a great purifying herb for the digestive tract and has been found to destroy certain intestinal hookworms and roundworms and aid in the digestion of rich or fatty foods. Thyme is also essential for urinary tract health and can help prevent infections and keep healthy bacteria in balance. Thyme has some of the highest antioxidant levels among herbs. It is packed with bioflavonoids such as lutein, zeaxanthin, and naringenin which have powerful effects on eliminating free-radicals and other disease producing substances from the body.
Fresh thyme can be found in the produce section of your local supermarket or health food store. Thyme is also an exceptionally easy herb to grow and can produce abundantly in both containers and/or home gardens.
Thyme tea is a powerful healing drink and can be made by infusing fresh thyme leaves in hot water and allowing to steep for 15-20 minutes.
How do I make Thyme Tea?
Ingredients:
- 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 10-16 oz hot water
- optional: fresh lemon and/or raw honey
Directions:
Place fresh thyme in a mug and pour hot water over the herb, allowing it to steep for 15 minutes or more. Remove thyme sprigs or strain. Sweeten with raw honey and/or lemon. Sip and enjoy!
How do I make Thyme Water?
Ingredients:
- 2 whole bunches fresh thyme sprigs
- 32-64 oz filtered or spring water
- optional: fresh lemon, raw honey, berries, cucumber slices, mint, etc.
Directions:
Fill jug or pitcher with room temperature water and add thyme sprigs. Allow to soak on the kitchen counter overnight. In the morning remove/strain thyme sprigs and add lemon or raw honey or any optional ingredients you’d like. Sip water throughout the day for the hydration and healing benefits.
Thyme Tea & Water FAQ
Can I use dried thyme?
It’s important to use fresh thyme to get the greatest healing benefits.
I usually use boiling water for tea. Is this OK?
It’s best to let the water cool off a bit before pouring over the delicate thyme leaves.
Can you re-use the thyme leaves?
Yes, but the first batch will be the most beneficial.
Can I drink this daily?
Yes you can, and you can drink it throughout the day.
Is the thyme water more hydrating than the thyme tea?
Yes, the thyme water is more hydrating because it is not heated, however the thyme tea also has many healing benefits.
Is it better to drink before or after meals?
You can enjoy it any time.
Can I have this while pregnant?
Yes, it is safe while pregnant.
Can I use thyme essential oil instead of fresh thyme?
No, thyme essential oil does not have the same therapeutic benefits. Fresh thyme is best.
Is this okay while breastfeeding?
Yes it is safe and healing for both the mother and baby.
How long can you keep the thyme water in a jug before you need to make a fresh batch?
You can keep it 2-3 days in the refrigerator.
Can I use more thyme than the recipe calls for?
Yes, you can use as much as you’d like.
Can I use less thyme than the recipe calls for?
Yes, you can however it won’t be as medicinal.
Learn more about the hidden healing powers of fruits, vegetables, and herbs in the #1 New York Times Bestselling book Life-Changing Foods. You can also find out more about how to incorporate cucumber juice into a healing routine in my Bestselling book Thyroid Healing.