Traditional Herbal Medicine Registration (THMR).

Culpeper: ‘... helps coughs and shortness of breath, provokes the terms, bringeth away dead children and the afterbirth, purgeth phlegm, cleanses the breast and lungs, reins [=kidneys] and matrix [uterus],helps the Sciatica, pains in the breast, expels wind in any part of the body, resisteth fearfulness and melancholy, continual pains in the head and is profitable for such that have the falling sickness to smell to.’

Medicinal uses Uses supported by clinical data None. Uses described in pharmacopoeias and in traditional systems of medicine Thyme extract has been used orally to treat dyspepsia and other gastrointestinal disturbances; coughs due to colds, bronchitis and pertussis; and laryngitis and tonsillitis (as a gargle). Topical applications of thyme extract have been used in the treatment of minor wounds, the common cold, disorders of the oral cavity, and as an antibacterial agent in oral hygiene (3, 5, 8, 15, 16). Both the essential oil and thymol are ingredients of a number of proprietary drugs including antiseptic and healing ointments, syrups for the treatment of respiratory disorders, and preparations for inhalation. Another species in the genus, T. serpyllum L., is used for the same indications (8). Uses described in folk medicine, not supported by experimental or clinical data As an emmenagogue, sedative, antiseptic, antipyretic, to control menstruation and cramps, and in the treatment of dermatitis (7). Contraindications Pregnancy and lactation - non-teratogenic effects The safety of Herba Thymi preparations during pregnancy or lactation has not been established. As a precautionary measure, the drug should not be used during pregnancy or lactation except on medical advice. However, widespread use of Herba Thymi has not resulted in any safety concerns.

Used as a garnish or added as a flavouring to cooked foods. An essential ingredient of the herb mix 'bouquet garni'. An aromatic tea is made from the fresh or dried leaves.

Deodorant; disinfectant; essential oil; fungicide; pot-pourri and repellent.

Notes: Oil of thymol is irritant to the gastrointestinal tract (MCA, 2002) and can cause a contact dermatitis.