Thyme Essential Oil
Thyme oil can benefit people who are suffering from depression or nervous complaints due to its uplifting properties. Thyme can be very beneficial for respiratory tract issues such as bronchitis colds and flu particularly if used as a steam inhalation. Thyme can be used to stimulate the digestive system and boost appetite particularly in people who are struggling with lack of appetite.
Thyme also has an antiseptic effect on the urinary system and can be used to soothe and ease urinary tract infections and also be used to improve circulation and ease symptoms associated with poor circulation Due to its vermifuge properties Thyme is particularly useful in helping the body to eliminate parasites such as intestinal worms from the body.
SYMPTOMS
Thyme essential oil has the following benefits:
Antiseptic, Anti-microbial, Aperitif, Bechic, Carminative, Expectorant, Stimulant, Tonic and Vermifuge.
Respiratory issues – As an expectorant and bechic, Thyme is effective in relieving the symptoms of colds, flu, bronchitis, sinusitis, coughs and chest infections being particularly effective when used as steam inhalation.
Elimination of parasites – Thyme has particular benefits as a vermifuge eliminating parasites such as internal worms.
Skin conditions – Due to its antiseptic and anti-microbial properties Thyme can be used in creams, lotions and baths to soothe skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and acne.
Mouth infections – Thyme is effective when used as a gargle or mouthwash to relieve gum infections, sore throats and infections such as tonsillitis.
Hair care – Thyme can be used effectively to improve scalp health and conditions such as dandruff.
BLENDS
Whilst most essential oils can be used together some oils can overpower other oils. Thyme goes particularly well with oils such as:
Bergamot
Grapefruit
Lemon
Lavender
Rosemary
Pine
WAYS TO USE
DIFFUSE
Thyme essential oil can be used in diffusers or oil burners. Using Thyme essential oil in this way is particularly beneficial in relieving respiratory issues such as bronchitis, colds, sinusitis and mucus congestion.
Diffuse 1 - 3 drops of Thyme essential oil in an oil burner or diffuser.
BATH
Thyme essential oil can be added to a warm bath to relieve muscle aches and pains and can help to relieve mucus congestion and respiratory infections.
Add 1 - 3 drops of Thyme essential oil to a warm bath.
Note: Care should be taken not to use more than 3 drops to prevent the bath from becoming too slippery. Essential oils should be added to a carrier oil before adding as oil and water do not mix and essential oils will float on the surface of the water and if used neat can burn the skin.
INHALATION
Inhaling Thyme essential oil is effective in helping to relieve symptoms associated with respiratory tract infections such as colds and bronchitis, sinusitis and mucus congestion. The use of steam inhalation is helpful in clearing congestion in your head, nose and chest.
Simply add 1 - 3 drops of Thyme essential oil to a bowl of hot water, place a towel or blanket over your head and shoulders to enclose your head over the bowl and inhale for 5 – 10 minutes.
Note: Steam inhalation may be too strong for children, instead place the bowl in the room or close by and allow the steam to infuse in the air.
GARGLE
When very diluted Thyme oil can be used to soothe sore throats, tonsillitis and gum infections.
Add 1 – 3 drops of essential oil to a glass of water and gargle, ensuring not to swallow.
CREAM
Adding a few drops of Thyme to a base cream is a great way of harnessing Thyme’s antiseptic and antibacterial properties can be used to treat bites and boils.
Add up to 12 drops of essential oil to 30 ml of base cream.
SIDE EFFECTS
As with all essential oils it should not be used neat on the skin, essential oils are very concentrated oils that can irritate the skin unless mixed with a carrier oil. Essential oils should not be used internally unless under the supervision of an aromatherapist.
People with an allergy to mint should not use Thyme as they may also be allergic to Thyme and Thyme oil.
Thyme should not be used if you suffer with high blood pressure.
Pregnant or breastfeeding mums should avoid using Thyme. Also avoid using on or around children.
Pets can be particularly sensitive to the effects of essential oils and can even be toxic so where possible should either be avoided or used where a pet is able to go into another room for example Thyme is one such oil.