Creeping Thyme- Thymus Serpyllum
Thymus serpyllum (known as creeping thyme, wild thyme, or field thyme) is an aromatic plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family (the mint family) and is well known for its use as a seasoning, in traditional medicine, and as an ornamental plant.
Additional information
Category
- Scientific name: Thymus serpyllum
- Family: Lamiaceae
- Type: Perennial plant
- Used parts: Leaves and flowers
- Height: Around 10–30 cm
- Growth: Creeping thyme is a small plant that grows horizontally and forms dense mats. Its leaves are small, narrow, and dark green. It blooms during the summer, producing small flowers that are pink or purple in color.
Culinary use: Creeping thyme is a popular ingredient in cooking. It is used as a seasoning to enhance the flavor of dishes, especially in meat dishes, soups, salads, and marinades. Its aroma is strong and distinctive, giving a unique flavor to any dish.
Medicinal use: Thymus serpyllum has numerous healing properties and has been used traditionally to treat several ailments. It is used as a natural antibiotic to treat respiratory issues such as cough, asthma, and bronchitis. It also helps in treating various infections and boosting the immune system.
Healing properties:
- Antibacterial and antifungal: It has strong properties to fight bacterial and fungal infections.
- Antioxidant: Contains compounds that help combat free radicals and protect the body from cellular damage.
- Digestive improvement: Creeping thyme can be used to aid digestion and relieve stomach pain.
- For respiratory issues: Contains substances that help soothe respiratory problems and clear the airways.
Cosmetic use: It is also used in cosmetic products for its antiseptic properties and its ability to improve skin appearance and treat acne and irritation.
Other uses:
- It is a plant that attracts bees and is an important source for producing thyme honey.
- It is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens and natural landscapes, as it has a beautiful color and is easy to grow.
- Growth: Creeping thyme prefers a warm, dry climate and is suitable for arid and rocky terrains. It thrives in full sun and well-drained, dry soils.
- Care: It is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It is adaptable to poor soil conditions and can grow in dry, arid environments.
- Thyme Infusion: It is commonly used as a tea to help treat respiratory and digestive issues.
- In essential oil form: It is used for massage to help relax muscles and relieve pain.