Let's Take Our Thyme
While we might not find Thyme growing in the wild around us, it is abundant and accessible in our modern markets as a culinary spice. Most likely, if you’re a cook or live with one, there’s some Thyme in your pantry!
The name of this herb comes from the Greek word, Thumus— which means Courage. In ancient days, Thyme was burnt in temples, worn on knights’ armor, and offered to beloveds who left for battle in order to offer strength in difficult times.
Interestingly, the root word of Courage is the latin «cor», meaning: heart (or cœur, corazón, cuore). I find this compelling because the gland connected to our higher heart— the Thymus— is mirrored not only in an ancient word for courage, but also in the name of this plant, Thyme. «Heart, Thymus Gland, Courage, and Thyme»— a grand web of connections!
Energetically and ancestrally, Thyme offers us the courage to whole-heartedly show up in the present tense. When we get too entangled in the past or future— rushing towards an outcome; worrying about what lies ahead; steeping ourselves in regret— Thyme brings us back to now. We experience the process; taking our time. Trusting. Breathing. Feeling what’s arising, without push or pull. We live from the higher heart, opening ourselves to the divine unfolding.
On a physical level, Thyme is an immune tonic containing high levels of antiseptic, antifungal, and antiviral essential oils. It is also thought to help support the Thymus gland, which plays a key role in our immunity by supporting the lymphatic system. A warming diaphoretic, expectorant, and anti-spasmodic, this aromatic herb shines in bringing relief to wet coughs and congestion.
Probably my favorite tea from the spice cabinet, steep 1-2 tsp of dried Thyme in a cup of freshly boiled water for about 10 minutes. Make sure to cover it when steeping to keep in those medicinal, volatile oils! Or (which I promptly did after taking this photo), grab a towel to make a tent over your head and steam with your steeping tea! Those antiseptic oils will cleanse and rejuvenate your respiratory system, and the aromatherapy will usher your nervous system into ease.
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