Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) essential oil benefits
Thyme CT (=chemo-type or main chemical constituents) linalool is the mildest variety of thyme, ideal for skin application and for preparations and blends for children. It is still a very active anti-microbial and anti-fungal plant extract. Thyme CT linalool is the gentlest and safest variety among all Thymes chemotypes; it is more suitable for use with children and on the skin. Soothing and warming for the chest and clearing to the lungs, Thyme CT Linalool is one of the most important respiratory oils. It is a great analgesic and anti-itching when combined with Basil, Chamomile, and Lavender in the case of nasty insect’s bites.
Thyme has been used for centuries; by the Egyptians, the Greeks =, the Romans and during the Middle Ages it was believed to keep the plague at bay. During WWI Thyme was largely used in hospitals as a very powerful disinfectant.
Among all Thyme chemotypes, Linalool is the safest of all so when purchasing Thyme essential oil it is very important to know the CT (Chemotype).
| CT Thymol | CT Carvacrol | CT Thujanol | CT Geraniol | CT Linalool | CT Limonene | |
| Thymus vulgaris, Thymus zygis, Thymus serpyllum | Thymus vulgaris, Thymus zygis, Thymus serpyllum | Thymus vulgaris | Thymus vulgaris, Thymus zygis | Thymus vulgaris, Thymus zygis | Thymus vulgaris, Thymus serpyllum | |
| benefits | antibacterial | strongly antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal | antibacterial | antibacterial | antibacterial | antibacterial |
| safety | mildly skin irritant, toxic to the liver | skin irritant, toxic to the liver | safe | safe | safe | safe |
GENERAL INFORMATION
Botanical Name: Thymus vulgaris (serpyllum, zygis)
Method of Extraction: Steam distillation from the leaves and flowering tops
Origin: France, Spain, Italy, India
Color: Pale yellow to gold yellow
Aroma: Strong herbaceous, pungent
Note: top
Blends well with: Bergamot, Black Pepper, Cinnamon Bark, Clary Sage, Eucalyptus, Fir, Grapefruit, Hinoki, Immortelle, Juniper Berry, Lavandin, Lavender Spike, Lavender, Lemon, Lemongrass, Lime, Manuka, Marjoram, Oregano, Pine, Rosemary, Sage, Tea Tree, Vetiver
Therapeutic properties: Analgesic, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, bactericidal, carminative, deodorant, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, insecticide, parasiticide, rubefacient, stimulant, tonic, vermifuge
HOW TO USE
To stimulate the immune system and clear the respiratory system burn 2-5 drops every 5 hours especially during winter months to fight cold and flu (add 1-2 drops of Peppermint or Pine). It works best if combined with vapor.
It is also a very restorative oil and can be used when in need of emotional nourishment, fight lethargy, and recover from mental fatigue. 3-5 drops in the burner.
Skin disinfectant – adults – 2-3 drops to a teaspoon (5 ml) of carrier oil or diluted in water to fight feet infections and fungus
0 – 4 years old – use not recommended
4 – 10 years old – 1-2 drops to a teaspoon (5 ml) of carrier oil or diluted in water to fight feet infections and fungus
For insect bites dilute in water 2 drops of Thyme, with 2 drops of Lavender, 1 of Basil, and 1 of Chamomile and wash the affected area; or mix it with 30 ml of aloe vera gel for immediate soothing.
Can be a skin irritant so it is highly advisable to skin patch test. Avoid during pregnancy and while breastfeeding unless under the supervision of a professional Aromatherapist. Do not use in case of high blood pressure. Will negate Homeopathic remedies. Not suitable during pregnancy or with children younger than 6 years. CT Thymol may have drug interaction considerations. It may prevent blood from clotting.
