Warm and spicy, thyme has been a beloved aromatic for centuries. The ancient Greeks burned it as incense inside temples. Both the Greeks and the Romans used thyme to flavor cheese and liquor. The Egyptians used it in the embalming process. Thyme was also a symbol of courage, and in the Middle Ages, knights wore scarves embroidered with a sprig of thyme. A soup of beer and thyme was consumed to help overcome shyness. The Scots used to make a tea of wild thyme, and believed that drinking it would boost courage and strength, plus prevent nightmares. Now, thyme is most popular in the kitchen, however, aromatherapists everywhere know of its therapeutic value and employ it in their practices.

Mixes well with: Bergamot, cinnamon, clary sage, eucalyptus, geranium, grapefruit, lavender, lemon, marjoram, myrrh, oregano, palmarosa, pine, rosemary, tea tree, and wintergreen.

Extraction method: Steam or water distillation.

Parts used: Flowering tops and fresh or partially dried leaves.

Safety Information: Avoid if diagnosed with high blood pressure. Not to be used in baths. Some highly sensitive people could have a reaction, so do a patch test, first, before using neat on skin.