Thyme Infusion: How To Prepare It, And Its Health Properties
Chamomile, rosemary, oregano and lavender are highly known and valued plants since ancient times, which humans have used in a wide variety of ways throughout history.
We probably recognize them mainly as a culinary condiment, but they also have interesting medicinal properties. In addition to those mentioned above, one of the most notable and most common is thyme, which is used in a large number of presentations and formats. One of them is thyme infusion which we are going to talk about throughout this article.
We call thyme a small aromatic plant or herb which has been known at least since ancient times, with records of various uses given by Greeks and Egyptians. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family, like rosemary or basil, and has a large number of existing varieties.
thyme It has been used historically in many different ways such as as a cosmetic or flavoring (not in vain its name comes from the Greek word thymos, which refers to its powerful smell), in funeral rituals and especially as a condiment in the form of a spice, it is a plant that is found predominantly in the Mediterranean, being common in countries such as Spain or Greece.
It is also known for its medicinal properties, derived from the large number of essential components and different types of nutrients, vitamins, antioxidants or minerals.
Thyme can be used in a large number of ways, consumed both as a spice and in oils or even as an infusion In the latter case, its preparation is extremely simple, as we will see below.
How to prepare an infusion?
Preparing a thyme infusion is relatively simple, requiring only infusion and water. Despite this Occasionally other herbs are also added, such as rosemary In addition, sugar, sweetener, honey or some type of element is also usually used to give the infusion a slightly sweeter flavor.
To prepare it, first of all you must put a sufficient amount of water (the exact amount may vary depending on the amount we want to make) in a pot or container and heat it over the heat until it boils. Once the water is boiling, add the thyme and let the mixture boil for ten to fifteen minutes Once this is done, she removes it from the heat and lets it rest. Finally, the mixture will be filtered and the type of sweetener you prefer added if desired.
Its beneficial properties
Thyme infusion is a very common type of preparation, which, as we have said previously, has a series of very beneficial effects for health when used and introduced into the body. the nutrients and healthy components of this plant
It can be consumed by people of any age, including children, although there are some exceptions, as we will see later. Thus, thyme infusion has a large number of interesting properties, some of which we analyze below.
1. It is anti-inflammatory
The high amount of polyphenols in thyme causes this herb to have a clearly anti-inflammatory effect, and can help reduce inflammation of lesions and wounds in addition to those caused by a bacterial infection
2. Fights various respiratory problems
Thyme is commonly used when we have a respiratory problem, having multiple very useful properties to treat various annoying and painful conditions. And it has a bronchodilator effect, which helps open the lungs, while It is antitussive and antispasmodic, relaxing and relieving irritation of the airways Likewise, it also favors the expulsion of mucus and phlegm.
3. Reduces digestive problems
Thyme has proven to be useful in the treatment of gastrointestinal discomfort, as well as in reducing gas. It also increases the synthesis of gastric juices and reduces abdominal bloating
4. Antiseptic and healing properties
Thanks to its multiple components, thyme has an important antiseptic effect, which is why Its infusion is usually used poured on cloths or gauze to help clean and disinfect wounds skin or even eyes. It also helps healing, promoting recovery from injuries.
5. Antioxidant effect
Thyme also contains an interesting amount of flavonoids, substances which can be considered antioxidants This reduces cellular aging and damage caused by free radicals, something that can affect both the skin and the organ or even the brain.
6. Strengthens the immune system and helps fight anemia
In addition to its antioxidant, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, thyme is very useful when it comes to strengthening the immune system, among other things. due to its high content of vitamins, iron and minerals This makes it difficult for infections to appear and even allows us to combat cases of anemia.
7. Reduces the pain and discomfort of premenstrual syndrome
Many women experience great discomfort during menstruation or during the period immediately before it, discomfort that can sometimes appear in the form of cramps. Fortunately, thyme infusion It has a soothing effect on these pains partly also due to its anti-inflammatory effects.
8. It is a diuretic
In addition to all of the above, thyme is a diuretic element that facilitates urination, something that in turn facilitates the elimination of harmful elements through urine and hinders infections in the genitourinary system.
9. Soothing
It has been observed that thyme infusion also has an effect on the psyche, having a relaxing effect that allows reduce activation level, tension and anxiety In addition, it also reduces blood pressure.
Caution: it also has contraindications
Thyme infusion, as we have seen, is certainly a good help in different conditions due to its multiple medicinal properties. However, the truth is that it can also be harmful in some situations.
Specifically, it is recommended to avoid excessive consumption in those people with heart problems as it can cause bradycardia, which in some cases can be dangerous.
They should also avoid it people with ulcers and chronic digestive problems, constipated people (it could aggravate this situation) or allergies to this spice. Finally, its consumption should be avoided during pregnancy, since it can cause contractions, spontaneous abortions or premature pregnancies. Nor during breastfeeding, since the quantity and quality of milk decreases.
