8 beneficial properties of thyme (thyme) for the body and rules of use
Thyme or thyme is a Mediterranean plant, the flowers and leaves of which have been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times. In the common people thyme is known by many names: creeping thyme, lemon flavor, chebarka and others.
Modern science has confirmed many medicinal properties of thyme, although the range of indications has narrowed slightly.
The plant kills harmful bacteria and fungi, Improves immunity and protects against some deadly diseases.
9 facts about the benefits
Let's describe the main facts about the benefits of thyme for the body based on scientific sources of information.
1. Reduces blood pressure
Rodent experiments performed under the supervision of Chinese scientists, demonstrate
thyme's ability to lower blood pressure.
The hypotensive effect of the plant is associated with the ability to slow down the heart a little and relax smooth muscle cells in the walls of the arteries.
Thyme can be used not only to maintain an adequate level of blood pressure, but also to prevent fibrous vascular changes.
The product is recommended for men and women of older age groups for the prevention and therapy (together with medications) of hypertension, as well as the prevention of complications of this disease.
2. Reduces the level of cholesterol in the blood
Research revealed
that thyme is an effective remedy for correcting abnormalities in lipid metabolism.
When ingested, the herb reduces the level of total cholesterol by about 25%, including "harmful" (LDL, TAG).
An increase in the concentration of "useful" cholesterol (HDL) was recorded, the high level of which is associated with a low incidence of cardiovascular disorders.
Despite the proven efficacy, the pharmacological effect remains unclear.
Regular inclusion of the plant in the diet makes it possible to prevent the development of diseases caused by the formation of atherosclerotic plaques on the inner walls of the arteries (coronary heart disease, chronic cerebral ischemia, myocardial infarction, stroke).
3. Fights cough
A simple cough can cause a lot of problems if it is persistent and persistent, leading to the development of respiratory disorders.
Thyme is an effective herbal remedy that can quickly suppress cough symptoms.
According to experts from Germany, thyme (especially in combination with ivy) reduces the frequency of coughing attacks, and also reduces their severity.
Against the background of therapy, a lighter course of bronchitis and other diseases of the upper respiratory tract, accompanied by cough, was noted.
The plant can be given to a child or pregnant women in order to prevent side effects inherent in some medications.
4. Normalizes the functioning of the central nervous system
Thyme essential oils (especially in combination with oregano) have been used in folk medicine since ancient times to relieve depression and other diseases of the central nervous system. Oral administration and aromatherapy are the most common.
Works of scientists from Italy and Switzerland show that the plant contains carvacrol, a biologically active substance that acts at the level of nerve tissues.
It is able to increase the production of hormones of "happiness" (serotonin, dopamine), which allows Improve your mood and effectively combat depressive disorders.
Experts note that people who regularly consume carvacrol feel more cheerful and satisfied.
The product is recommended for use during periods of active psycho-emotional stress and in difficult life situations.
5. Destroys pathogenic bacteria
Portuguese Explorers discovered
pronounced antimicrobial activity of thyme oil.
The medicinal plant is able to suppress the growth and reproduction of staphylococci, enterococci, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
These bacteria are the most common pathogens of infectious and inflammatory diseases of the oral cavity, upper respiratory tract, intestines and urinary system.
The plant is also useful for the female body, as it reduces the risk of bacterial infections of the genital organs (colpitis, endocervicitis, endometritis).
In folk medicine, thyme essential oil is used for long-term chronic pyelonephritis, bronchitis, enteritis and colitis to prevent exacerbations.
6. Fighting cancer
According to experts from Portugal, thyme maybe
an effective tool for the prevention and even slowing down the growth of malignant neoplasms.
Scientists have discovered 9 compounds (oleanolic acid, sterubin, sacuranetin, ursolic acid, lutein, sitosterol, rosemary acid, glucopyrazides) that cause the destruction and death of colon cancer cells.
Turkish Studies confirmed the effectiveness of thyme against breast cancer cells in women. The plant causes apoptosis, followed by the death of cells whose genetic code differs from the "typical" one.
According to experts, thyme is a promising candidate that can be part of antitumor drugs and be prescribed for the treatment of malignant neoplasms.
It is assumed that thyme is no less effective against tumors of other localizations.
7. Improves the condition of the skin
Diseases of the skin and hair follicles are widespread and represent a significant medical and social problem.
Recent research show that thyme is effective not only for the elimination of fungal infections, but also for the treatment of infectious, inflammatory and autoimmune skin lesions.
For example, the use of a cream with chamomile and thyme extract causes a decrease in swelling and hyperemia of the skin, the severity of itching and soreness during eczema and pathological conditions similar to this disease.
Thyme, due to its antibacterial effect, can be used for the prevention and treatment of acne ("pimples").
The product also relieves irritation after shaving, moisturizes the skin and normalizes metabolic processes in it, increases smoothness and elasticity.
Creams or gels with the addition of thyme can be used not only for medical purposes, but also for cosmetic purposes – to preserve the aesthetics of the image and preserve youth.
8. Strengthens the immune system
Immunity is a complex interconnected system, the stable operation of which can be disrupted by many factors (hypothermia, malnutrition, etc.).
However, the most significant triggers are: the use of antibiotics with a violation of the composition of the intestinal microflora, the appearance of malignant tumors, chronic inflammation and oxidative stress.
Numerous scientific papers have revealed that thyme capable destroy even those bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics (as a result, massive doses of various antibacterial drugs are not required).
The product is also warns the appearance of malignant processes, and presumably blocks key markers of inflammatory processes.
Against the background of a favorable environment in the body, the immune system works more effectively, providing protection from any foreign agents.
9. Has an antifungal effect
Specialists of the University of Zagreb (Croatia) claim
that thyme-based essential oils can be used to kill pathogenic fungi in damp rooms (in apartments and industrial buildings), as well as to get rid of nail fungus.
The product is effective against almost all known varieties of fungal microorganisms and is able to have an effect for a long time (from the moment of application).
Safety and harm
In general, thyme is considered a safe product, although it has contraindications. In some cases, it can cause significant harm.
The most common side effects include:
- Decrease in the "viscosity" of blood. Thyme is not recommended to be consumed orally together with drugs that affect the rheological properties of blood (warfarin, aspirin, etc.). This practice can cause bleeding.
- Dyspeptic disorders. Occur when abused. They manifest themselves in the form of pain in the stomach, nausea or vomiting, extremely rarely diarrhea.
- Hormonal changes. Thyme increases the production of female sex hormones – estrogens. This is extremely undesirable in the presence of tumors of the ovaries, uterus, and mammary glands.
- Skin irritation. When used topically, in 1-3% of cases, short-term swelling, itching and hyperemia (redness) are observed at the application sites.
- Allergic reactions. Are widespread and usually characterized by severe course. Cases of cross-allergy have been described, with sensitization of the body to certain components of oregano (oregano).
Thyme is considered a safe product for healthy people. Few studies have been conducted on the effects of the plant on the body of a child and pregnant women. They confirmed full security.
In order to maximize the benefits of thyme and reduce the risk of complications, it is recommended not only to carefully approach the use of the plant, but also to follow the banal rules of storage. It is stored fresh for up to 7-14 days in the refrigerator, dried for up to 6 months in any airtight container (in a dark, cool place).
Use cases
There are medicinal recipes based on thyme. Let's focus on the most promising ones:
- For health promotion in general. Boil 400 ml of water, add 2 tablespoons of dried thyme. Let it brew for 10-15 minutes. Take an infusion of 200 ml 2 times a day for 2-3 weeks.
- With acute respiratory infections. Prepare the infusion according to the recipe indicated above. Add 1 tsp of honey to 200 ml of the drink. Take 1 cup up to 2-3 times a day during the entire acute period (5-7 days).
- Syrup. Finely chop 50 grams of leaves and 50 grams of thyme flowers, put them in an enameled saucepan. Pour 400 ml of water and put on fire. Boil until the volume decreases by 2 times. The resulting composition is mixed with 30 ml of lemon juice and 100 grams of honey. Take 2-3 tablespoons 1 time a day (in the morning). Store in a dark, cool place in a tightly closed container for up to 2 weeks.
- Tea. Mix 1 tsp green tea, 1 tsp ivan tea, 3 tbsp thyme. Pour 300 ml of water (80-90 ° C). Let it brew for 30 minutes. Thyme tea should be taken 100-150 ml 2 times a day.
- Mosquito repellent. Stir 15 drops of thyme essential oil into 500 ml of water. Shake the mixture thoroughly and apply a thin layer to the surface of the skin or clothes.
Thyme is often used in cooking. It can be added to dishes of chicken, beef or lamb; decorate salads or stews of vegetables, season fish.
Conclusion
- Thyme is a valuable medicinal plant that has been used by humans for several millennia.
- It lowers blood pressure and normalizes lipid profile indicators, prevents the development of oncological diseases and improves the functioning of the central nervous system.
- The plant is recommended for respiratory infections, as it strengthens the immune system and destroys pathogenic microorganisms.
- Thyme is often used to eliminate fungus on walls in residential areas and for the treatment of foot mycoses.
- The product is allowed to be taken by pregnant women and women, as studies have failed to identify harm.
