Tuesday, September 04, 2007

Thyme for flavour

Thymus vulgaris or Garden Thyme is a largely used culinary herb. Thyme is also known for its Therupatic properties. Thyme is a perennial herb which growns best in well-drained soils and enjoys full sun. It is a drought resistant plant. There are many species of Thyme. Thyme is sold both fresh and dried. Thyme is a basic ingredient in French and Italian cuisines. Ancient Egyptians used thyme in embalming. The Greeks and Romans used Thyme to make incense.

Thyme species are used as food plants by the larvae of some Lepidoptera insect species including Chionodes. Thyme is widely cultivated as a herb, grown for its strong flavour, which is due to its content of thymol. Thyme tea is good for cough and bronchitis. It has anti-spasmodic and carminative properties.

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