Thymus vulgaris, steam distilled from red thyme, from Spain
Aroma: A middle note with a warm, spicy-herbaceous, powerful aroma.
Description: Red Thyme is an evergreen shrub with blooming pink-red flowers. The name has two possible Greek origins. The first being thymon which means to fumigate. This comes from herb being used as an incense. The second is thumon meaning courage. Thyme was associated with bravery.
Common Uses: Thyme Essential Oil has been used effectively as an antispasmodic, anti-rheumatic, antiseptic, bactericidal, bechic, cardiac, carminative, cicatrisant, diuretic, emenagogue, expectorant, hypertensive, insecticide, stimulant tonic and vermifuge substance. Thyme red oil acts as a memory booster and an antidepressant. It helps to increase concentration and helps to cure sinusitis, bronchitis, anorexia, cellulite, eczema, athletes foot, dermatitis, insect and animal bites.
"Thyme is one of the most energetically hot and invigorating of essential oils. It is a powerful tonic of the body's yang energy... Strongly antibacterial, the essential oil is indicated for a number of infections."--from Gabriel Mojay's Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit, page 122.
Consistency: Thin
TO USE: The active ingredient Thymol may crystallize in temperatures below 20 degree Celsius. Place the bottle in a very hot water bath, changing the water frequently and once it is back to the liquid state be sure to shake before use. For topical uses only, dilute before use. Avoid contact with eyes and mouth.
Note: Middle
Strength of Aroma: Medium
Blends well with: Bergamot, Grapefruit, Lemon, Lavender, Rosemary and Pine.
History: Thyme was used in ancient herbal medicine Greeks, Egyptians and the Romans. It was used as incense in Greek temples and the Egyptians used it in embalming. During the Middle Ages it was given to jousting Knights for courage, and a sprig of thyme was carried into courtrooms to ward off diseases.
Main Constituents:
Carvacrol, thymol, b-caryophyllene, borneol, linalool, a-terpinene, p-cymene, b-pinene, camphene, a-pinene, camphor, gamma terpinene
borneol: 26-30%
Cautions: Thyme Essential Oil should be avoid during pregnancy, or if a history of high blood pressure exists. Thyme contains a high amount of thymol that can irritate mucus membranes, and must be diluted well before use. Avoid use if under the care of a medical practitioner. May cause skin irritation in some individuals; a skin test is recommended prior to use. Contact with eyes should be avoided.
Photo thanks to Greenmars - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link