Thyme

Thymus vulgaris

A tiny aromatic shrub with an outsized antimicrobial reputation — the classic cough and sore-throat herb.

At a glance

Warm, woody, peppery, with a clean medicinal lift. Tea brews pale gold and finishes with a bright thymol bite.

  • Cough and bronchitis tea
  • Honey-thyme cough syrup
  • Sinus steam inhalation
  • Mouthwash and gargle

Modern research

Tradition

Egyptian embalming, Greek incense, medieval pillows against nightmares, and a knight's scarf for courage — thyme has been the European antimicrobial workhorse for millennia.

Modern evidence

Combination products of thyme with primrose root or ivy leaf have well-documented benefit for acute bronchitis. Thymol-based mouthwashes meaningfully reduce plaque and gingivitis.