There are many species and subspecies of thyme, exemplifying the Darwinian principle of divergence from a common ancestor as adaptations occur to exploit varying habitats and niches. Three species are considered native to Britain, but the species used by medical herbalists is the garden thyme, Thymus vulgaris. This, therefore, is the species I shall discuss, but it is likely that the native species will contain similar compounds, with similar potential for medicinal use.

Thymus vulgaris is a native of the western Mediterranean region, east to S.E Italy. It was being cultivated in Britain by 1548, but was probably here long before that. It is now widely naturalised, with the frequency of records increasing.

Like many Mediterranean species, thyme contains a pungent and volatile essential oil. This oil contains many constituent compounds including thymol and carvacrol to name but two. These compounds give the oil strong antiseptic properties. It is active against bacteria and fungi. Thyme tea or diluted thyme tincture makes an effective gargle for sore throats, laryngitis or tonsillitis, and can be taken internally for infections of the lungs. It also has expectorant properties and is a soothing remedy for irritable coughs. Hence, at this time of year, I do a brisk trade in Thyme and Liquorice syrup. I shall leave liquorice for a future edition.