Getting to Know Your Thyme Herb

Thyme herb is an aromatic evergreen perennial shrub with fragrant rich, lilac or white flowers, a thin woody base, and square stems. It grows to about 15 to 30 cm in height. Thyme grows best in hot, sunny locations with well-drained soil. Thyme is a native plant of the Mediterranean regions common with the ancient Greeks.

Thyme is usually available dried or fresh. The dried herb can be stored in a tightly sealed container and stored in a cool, dark, and dry place, Fresh thyme should be stored in a refrigerator preferably wrapped in a slightly damp cloth. Fresh thyme herb provides better quality nutrients and richer flavors.

Thyme Herb Used in Cooking

This herb is used to impart flavor to dishes. It should be used sparingly as it has a strong flavor. Its effects in cooking are best when added at the last moment in the cooking process.

It is used to flavor herbal tea as a health drink. Thyme is used to marinate and flavor stuffing for chicken, fish, and meat dishes. It is also popular in soups and sauces.

Health Benefits of Thyme

Thyme contains thymol which is said to have antiseptic, and anti-fungal characteristics. It has one of the highest antioxidant levels among herbs. Thyme herb is a great source of potassium, iron, calcium, manganese, magnesium, and selenium.

Thyme is also a rich source of many vitamins such as B-complex vitamins, beta-carotene, vitamin A, vitamin K, vitamin E, vitamin C, and folic acid. It does not contain cholesterol.