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Thyme Organic |
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Thyme Organic
THYME - Organic
(Thymus vulgaris)
History and Folklore
The least conspicuous plants are often the most precious. Thyme creeps low across the ground, closely hugging the body of Mother Earth and clothing her in fragrant robes. Yet, its tiny leaves are barely noticeable lest it is in flower. When Thyme springs into blossom, the countryside is transformed, at least in those dry and inhospitable places where it prefers to make itself at home. Each year in early spring, the arid Mediterranean hillsides burst into a pinkish purple, sweet scented wonderland, abuzz with delirious bees that are lapping up the copious nectar.
In ancient times it was customary for Ladies to embroider scarves depicting a sprig of Thyme with a bee hovering above. These they would present to their knights - presumably as an alluring symbol of natural attraction. Thyme was thought a fitting scent even for the Gods. Its very name derives from the Greek word 'thyein', which means 'to burn as a sacrifice', implying its ancient use as incense. Thyme may seem humble and lowly, but it is packed with power and was once thought to convey courage, strength and bravery. It was used as a strewing herb and as fragrant bedstraw, especially for women in childbed. Yet, it also had associations with the Otherworld and the realm of fairies. The 'hillside where the wild thyme blows', was thought to conceal the entrance to their lovely realm. Thyme was also often planted on graves and used in embalming lotions. Sprigs of Thyme are worn for remembrance and to alleviate grief and sorrow. Although Thyme is no longer revered as it once was, it is still considered very important as a culinary herb and as a source of Thymol, one of the best and most effective antiseptics known. Even now it is widely used as a wound dressing and cleansing agent. (See Thyme essential oil)
Medicinal Uses:
Thyme is one of the best agents for respiratory infections such as sore throat, laryngitis or tonsillitis and is one of the best herbs for a tickly, dry cough. It is even said to be effective for whooping cough. Thyme is a powerful antiseptic for both lungs and stomach. It also disinfects the urinary system and can be used for cystitis and urethritis. Thyme may be used as part of a worming regime - worms hate thyme and drinking thyme tea for several days before using a worming agent will so weaken the parasites that they will be easy to dispel. Thyme also is an excellent stomachic herb, disinfecting the stomach and clearing stomach catarrh. Thyme's well known antiseptic properties make it very effective as a wound dressing and for treating inflamed skin conditions, acne, abscesses, boils and the like. It also soothes insect bites and dispels lice, fleas and other creatures. As a compress it can be used as a circulatory stimulant for arthritis, rheumatism, muscle aches and gout. It detoxifies and can be helpful for water retention and cellulites. It stimulates the uterus and promotes menstrual flow.
CAUTION
Avoid during pregnancy.
Magical Uses:
Thyme can be used for protection and cleansing and as an incense offering to the Gods. It imparts strength, courage and bravery and can aide with difficult tasks. Thyme strengthens memory and concentration and may be helpful for those engaged in studies. It can be used as a sign of remembrance and love, especially at funerary rites. Thyme has an affinity with the fairy realm and may attract these elusive beings or help finding access to their world.
BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child's range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one's own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.
Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother's milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don't risk regret.
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