10 Ways Thyme Can Promote Good Health
Coming from the mint family, thyme is a super herb quite popular among Italians. It is quite similar to the Indian ajwain in taste and performs the function of boosting digestion as well. Moreover, this herb possesses several medicinal qualities too. Some of them include lowing blood pressure, treating cold and cough, boosting immunity etc. So, let us take a look at a few health benefits of Thyme and how we can incorporate it in our diet.
- Lowers Blood Pressure
A recent research tested the effect of thyme on rats and found that it helped in lowering the rate of heartbeat in the animal with high blood pressure. It was also found that it was also responsible in lowering the level of cholesterol.
So, as per the conclusion, thyme helps in lowing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Since it has a bit salty taste, you can use it in place of salt in your food. It not only gives an added flavour to your dish but also a superb taste.
- Improves eye sight
Thyme is a storehouse of vitamin A, which is basically a fat-soluble vitamin. It is also an antioxidant, which is crucial for maintaining healthy mucus membranes and skin. Since vitamin A is essential for a good vision, consumption of thyme is a must.
- Cures cold
Owing to its antiseptic properties, thyme is a great remedy to treat common cold. So, all you need to do is boil some of this herb in water. After a few minutes, remove from the flame. Once the water cools down a bit, strain it. Drink it a couple of times in a day for quick healing.
- Strengthens immune system
Packed with several types of nutrients, this herb helps in boosting immunity. It aims at building resistance against several types of diseases. Diseases related to stomach, nose and throat can be easily prevented and cured with the usage of thyme. It is a storehouse of vitamin A and C, and copper, iron and manganese.
- Acts as a disinfectant
This wonder herb is not only good for our overall health but also helps in keeping the surroundings clean. It is especially helpful is treating the bad fungi called mold. It is quite common in households and is a very dangerous air pollutant. By using thyme oil, you can easily get rid of it. Thyme oil is known to possess anti-fungal properties and therefore is a great disinfectant.
- Keeps pests at bay
Thymol is a common ingredient, which is used in several pesticides, meant for both indoor and outdoor use. This ingredient, which is extracted from thyme herb, is effective in keeping bad bacteria, viruses, rats and other pests at bay. Besides, a recent study has shown that it is also helpful in repelling mosquitoes. To make a repellent, just add four drops of thyme oil to one teaspoon of olive oil. Alternately, you can mix five drops of thyme oil with two cups of water.
- Promotes good breath and smell
As we discussed above that thyme has antiseptic and anti-fungal properties. Owing to these, it is used in several skin care products as well. Not only this, it is a popular ingredient used in mouthwashes and natural deodorants as well.
- Improves bone health
Nutrients like Vitamin K, calcium, manganese and iron help in promoting bone health. And thyme is a rich source of these nutrients. Therefore, thyme helps in proper growth of bones and saves them from diseases.
- Aids digestion
Thyme tea is a great remedy to improve digestion. Once the digestion gets improved, it further boosts metabolism of the body, thus aiding weight loss. Moreover, the volatile oils present in thyme help in relieving intestinal cramps.
- Lifts up mood
If health care was not enough, this superb herb also keeps you happy. Thyme oil basically contains a compound called carvacrol, which is used in both aromatherapy and therapeutic treatments. As per a 2013 study, this compound showed positive effect on the neuron activity, thus boosting the feeling of happiness and wellbeing. So, thyme essential oil is used in boosting or rather lifting up for mood.
To know about the beauty benefits of thyme, click here.