Thyme is indigenous to the Mediterranean region Wild thyme grows in the Levant, where it might have been first cultivated. Ancient Egyptians used thyme for embalming. The ancient Greeks used it in their baths and burnt it as incense in their temples, believing it was a source of courage.
When was thyme first used?
Thyme has a long history of use that dates back as far as 2750 BC with Sumerian cuneiform tablets suggesting that Thyme be dried and pulverized with pears, figs and water for use as a poultice.
Who used thyme first?
The earliest example we know of is dated back to ancient Sumeria – over 3,000 years ago. The author of this script noted that thyme was an antiseptic.
Where did thyme originate?
thyme, (Thymus vulgaris), pungent herb of the mint family (Lamiaceae) known for the aroma and flavour of its dried leaves and flowering tops. Thyme is native to Eurasia and is cultivated throughout the world.
What country is thyme used in?
Thyme is indigenous to the Mediterranean region, especially in the Iberian Peninsula and in Northwest Africa. Common thyme is native to Southern Europe, from Spain to Italy. Thymus zygis is indigenous to Portugal and Spain. Thymus serpyllum and Thymus pulegioides also grow in the wild in all European countries.
What was thyme used for in the Middle Ages?
Britain in the Middle Ages, thyme was used throughout Europe to help fight the Black Plague. It was placed beneath pillows to help sleep and ward off nightmares. Women often gave Warriors gifts that included thyme leaves, as it was believed to bring courage to the bearer.
What does thyme do to the body?
Thyme contains chemicals that might help bacterial and fungal infections. It also might help relieve coughing and have antioxidant effects. People commonly use thyme for cough, patchy hair loss (alopecia areata), dementia, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
What cuisines use thyme?
You’ll find it in many major world cuisines, including Mediterranean, French, Middle Eastern, and Italian. Thyme can be used fresh or dried, and works well in soups, roasted vegetables, pasta, sauces, pizzas and more!
Is thyme native to North America?
Euphorbia serpyllifolia (Euphorbia serpillifolia) is a species of euphorb known by the common names thymeleaf sandmat or thyme-leafed spurge. It is native to a large part of North America from Canada to Mexico, where it is a common member of the flora in many types of habitat.
How did thyme get to America?
Wild thyme is found growing on heaths, in sheep pastures, and mountainous areas in temperate regions. It was probably introduced to North America by European colonists, and has escaped cultivation.
What is the biblical meaning of thyme?
It is said by Christian believers that thyme was one of several plants used to fill the manger upon which the infant Jesus was laid, hence its religious significance throughout the Mediterranean.
How was thyme discovered?
In the 11th century, monks of the Benedictine Order brought thyme across the Alps and into Northern Europe. Knights in the Middle Ages bound thyme to their armor to gain strength. Abbess Hildegard von Bingen discovered its valuable medicinal properties.
Is thyme poisonous?
Commonly used for cooking, thyme is considered safe when used in normal food amounts. It also appears to be well-tolerated in dietary supplement forms. However, the overconsumption of thyme may cause upset stomach, cramps, headaches, and dizziness.
What did Romans use thyme for?
The Romans thought that eating thyme before or during a meal would cure poisons, making it especially popular among Roman emperors. Thyme was also often given to Roman soldiers upon their leaving for battle, as a sign of courage.
What smells better rosemary or thyme?
Rosemary: More Powerful Flavor
Its smell can be described pretty much the same. Of the two, rosemary is definitely the one with the strongest flavor but thyme isn’t much behind either.
In what form is thyme most commonly used?
Thyme is typically used in savory dishes like braised or roasted meat, vegetables, or fish, as well as in savory baking. It can also be used to add flavor and depth to marinades, soups and stocks, cocktail elements, and teas.
Who should not take thyme?
Scientists have theorized that thyme can make hormone-sensitive conditions worse. 6 For that reason, women with breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids should be cautious about using thyme.
What does thyme do for your face?
Thyme Oil is known to stimulate, which is beneficial in skincare for circulation and increasing blood flow to skin. This perks up fatigued skin and boosts overall skin health. With Thyme Oil’s incredible ability to increase circulation, scar tissue from acne or other skin injuries can slowly start to fade.
Is thyme good for your kidneys?
Healthy kidney function also requires frequent diuresis since retaining fluid for extended periods of time increases the chance of kidney stone development. Thyme is a moderate natural diuretic that helps balance electrolyte levels by gently encouraging the outflow of the excessive fluid.
Is thyme French or Italian?
Thyme is widely used in Italian cooking – where it is know as “timo, pronounced “tee-mo” – and even more so in French cuisine.
What flavor does thyme add?
Thyme, Defined (& How to Cook With It)
Common thyme (the one you’ve probably encountered most regularly) has an earthy, minty, slightly lemony flavor.
Gerardo Gonzalez loves cooking. He became interested in it at a young age, and has been honing his skills ever since. He enjoys experimenting with new recipes, and is always looking for ways to improve his technique.
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