Thyme (Thymus vulgarus)

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is an excellent herb for conditions of the lung. Because of its mucolytic properties (ie ability to break down mucous) it is ideal for conditions such as bronchitis and asthma. It is considered a relaxing expectorant so whilst it creates a productive cough it also has the ability to reduce bronchial spasm. Additionally, Thyme is anti-microbial so whilst reducing the severity of the symptoms of respiratory infections it concurrently kills the micro-organism causing the infection.  

The acitivity of Thyme is largely based on the presence of an aromatic oil called Thyme Oil. This oil contains chemicals classed as monoterpene phenols called thymol and carvacrol.  The herb is an excellent example of the ability of certain herbs to treat one condition with several complementary actions.

References

The British Herbal Medicine Association (1983) British Herbal Pharmacopoeia. Herbal Medicine Association: West Yorks.

Mills, SY (1988) The Dictionary Of Modern Herbalism.Healing Art Press: Vermont.

Pengelly, A (2004) The Constituents of Medicinal Plants. CABI Publishing: Washington.

Wiess, R.F. (2001) Weiss’s Herbal Medicine: Classic Edition. Thieme: New York