Spice Rack: Thyme Fights Respiratory Infections

2nd-sd-card-organic-bar-b-que-sauce-tea-3-4-09-002Not only does thyme add flavor to foods, but it is also great for fighting respiratory infections.  The oils in thyme fight viral, bacterial and fungal growth in the body.  Make thyme tea to relieve the following:

  • * Asthma
  • * Bronchitis
  • * Congestion
  • * Cough
  • * Hay fever
  • * Sore throat

Cooking with thyme:

Thyme is great for cooking.  I like to use parsley, thyme and rosemary in soups, stews and some chicken dishes for added flavor and nutrition.  It’s also good with bay leaf to season things as well.

Interesting Facts:

Thyme contains thymol which is found in Listerine and Vicks VapoRub and is used because of its antibacterial properties.  Thyme tea can also be used as a soak for Athlete’s Foot.

How to Make Thyme Tea:

Using either fresh (2 twigs) or dried thyme (2 teaspoons) per cup of boiling water.  Let it steep for 20 minutes.  There are various ways you can do this, either by using an infuser (as pictured above), placing tea in a piece of cheesecloth and using a twist tie to secure the top, or using tea filters which you can buy.

Sweeten with Stevia (which is what I use), honey, or agave nector.

* I’ve read that pregnant women and those trying to get pregnant should not use large amounts of thyme, but it’s OK in food.