Thyme Powder - Usage & Health Benefits
Thyme Powder, native to warm and temperate zones, has been known to mankind for over 3000 years. The word ‘thyme’ is of Greek origin and means ‘courage’ (thumus) or ‘to perfume’ (thymos). It is one of those rare spices that, even when dried retains its flavor and aroma quite well. Greeks used this spice as a symbol of style, elegance and courage, and used it as an incense to cleanse holy areas. The spice is still very popular but has been found to have diverse uses and benefits, let us get to know some of them.
Use of Thyme Powder
This herb belonging to the mint family, like its counterparts, is mainly used in food preparation and as an alternative medicine. The distinct flavor and aroma of thyme is due to ‘Thymol’, it also contains many flavonoids and phenolic antioxidants. Here are some uses of the spice:
This delicate, aromatic herb powder is a vital part of Mediterranean, Italian, French, and Spanish cuisines. The flavor of the spice is not overpowering and blends well with the other spices, but it is important that it is added only towards the end of the cooking process to retain the taste and odor. The spice is used to flavor soups, stews, casseroles, gravies, pizza, meat, baked or sautéed vegetables, and custards. It is also used to flavor tea.
Thyme powder contains much health supportive nutrients along with the antioxidants. It is good source of dietary fibre, vitamins (vitamin A, vitamin K, vitamin E, vitamin C, and B- Complex), and minerals (potassium, iron, calcium, manganese, magnesium, and selenium). Dietary consumption of thyme can increase the intake of the much talked about Omega 3 fatty acids that improves brain, kidney, and heart health. It is a valuable antiseptic, antimicrobial, expectorant, antispasmodic, tonic, and anti-parasitic agent.
Used in the commercial preparation of toothpastes, eye washes, mouthwashes, salve, syrup, and tincture
Used in liniments and creams used in the topical treatment
Used in potpourris and perfumes
Health Benefits of Thyme Powder
Cures respiratory problems like cold, cough, flu, congestion, whooping cough, bronchitis
Treats insect bites, stings, worm, and parasite infestations
Cures minor digestive problems like indigestion, colic, flatulence, irritable bowel syndrome
Eases symptoms of chronic gastritis, enteritis, dyspepsia, and abdominal pain
Treats fungal and yeast infections like athlete's foot and oral candida
Prevents and cures oral problems like gingivitis, cavities, plaque formation, bad breath, ulcers
Prevents nervous disorders such as depression, insomnia, and nervous exhaustion
It is better to be aware of the Side Effects of Thyme before you start using it therapeutically.
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