Thyme infusion: how to prepare it, and its properties for health

March 31, 2024

Chamomile, rosemary, oregano or lavender are highly known and valued plants since antiquity, which the human being has used in a variety of ways throughout history.

We probably recognize them mainly as a condiment at a gastronomic level, but they also have interesting medicinal properties. In addition to the previously mentioned, one of the most outstanding and most common is the thyme, which is used in a large number of presentations and formats. One of them is the infusion of thyme , of which we are going to talk throughout this article.

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Thyme and thyme infusion: main properties

We call thyme a small plant or aromatic herb which is known at least since the Ancient Age, there being records of various uses given by Greeks and Egyptians. It belongs to the family of the lamiaceae, like rosemary or basil, and has a large number of existing varieties.

Thyme Historically, it has been used in very different ways , as for example as cosmetic or flavoring (not in vain its name part of the Greek word thymos, which refers to its powerful smell), in funeral rituals and especially as a seasoning in the form of spice, it is a plant that is found predominantly in the Mediterranean, being usual in countries like Spain or Greece.

It is also known for its medicinal properties, derived from the large number of essential components and different types of nutrients, vitamins, antioxidants or minerals.

Thyme can be used in many ways, being consumed as much as a spice as in oils or even as an infusion . In this last case, its preparation is extremely simple, as we will see next.

How to prepare an infusion?

Prepare an infusion of thyme is relatively simple, requiring only infusion and water. Despite this Occasionally other herbs are also added, such as rosemary . In addition, sugar, sweetener, honey or some type of element that allows a somewhat sweeter flavor to the infusion is also commonly used.

To prepare it, first of all proceed to put a sufficient amount of water (the exact amount can vary depending on the amount you want to make) in a pot or container and heat it to the fire, until it boils. Once the water is boiling, the thyme should be added and Let the mixture boil for ten to fifteen minutes . This done, remove from the fire and let it rest. Finally, proceed to filter the mixture and add if desired the type of sweetener that is preferred.

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Its beneficial properties

The infusion of thyme is a very common type of preparation, which, as we have said before, has a series of very beneficial effects on health, as it is used and introduced into the body the nutrients and healthy components of this plant .

It can be consumed by people of any age, including children, although they exist as we will see later some exceptions. Thus, the thyme in infusion has a lot of interesting properties, some of which we analyze below.

1. It is anti-inflammatory

The high amount of thyme polyphenols causes this herb to have a clearly anti-inflammatory effect, being able to help reduce inflammations of injuries and wounds in addition to those of a bacterial infection .

2. Combat various respiratory problems

Thyme is commonly used when we have a respiratory problem, possessing many useful properties to treat various annoying and painful conditions. And it has a bronchodilator effect, which helps open the lungs, at the same time It is antitussive and antispasmodic, relaxing and relieving the irritation of the airways . It also favors the expulsion of mucus and phlegm.

3. Reduce digestive problems

Thyme has proven to be useful in the treatment of gastrointestinal discomfort, as well as in the reduction of gases. It also increases the synthesis of gastric juices and reduces abdominal swelling .

4. Antiseptic and healing properties

Thanks to its multiple components, thyme has an important antiseptic effect, which is why its infusion is usually used poured on cloths or gauze in order to help clean and disinfect wounds cutaneous or even ocular. It also helps healing, favoring the recovery of injuries.

5. Antioxidant effect

Thyme also contains an interesting amount of flavonoids, substances which can be considered antioxidants . This makes it possible to reduce cell aging and damage caused by free radicals, something that can affect both cutaneous and organic or even cerebral.

6. Strengthens the immune system and helps fight anemia

In addition to its antioxidant, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, thyme is very useful when it comes to strengthening the immune system, among other things for its high content of vitamins, iron and minerals . This makes it difficult for infections to appear and even helps to fight anemia.

7. Reduce the pain and discomfort of premenstrual syndrome

Many women experience great discomfort during menstruation or during the period immediately before menstruation, a discomfort that can sometimes appear in the form of colic. Fortunately, the infusion of thyme It has a calming effect of these pains , partly also because of its anti-inflammatory effects.

8. It is diuretic

In addition to all the above, thyme is a diuretic element that facilitates urination, which in turn facilitates the elimination of harmful elements through urine and it makes infections in the genitourinary system difficult.

9. Calming

It has been observed that the thyme infusion also has an effect on the psyche, having a relaxing effect that allows lower the level of activation, tension and anxiety . In addition, it also reduces blood pressure.

Caution: it also has contraindications

The infusion of thyme, as we have seen, is certainly a good help in different conditions due to its multiple medicinal properties. However, the truth is that it can also be harmful in some situations.

Specifically, it is recommended to avoid excessive consumption in those people with heart problems , to be able to cause bradycardia that in some cases can be dangerous.

They should also avoid those people with ulcers and chronic digestive problems , constipated people (could aggravate this situation) or allergies to this spice. Finally, it should be avoided during pregnancy, since it can lead to contractions, spontaneous abortions or premature pregnancies. Neither during lactation, as it decreases the quantity and quality of milk.