O'NATUREL

Known since the dawn of time, thyme is a plant commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine. But do you know all its properties? A true concentrate of health benefits, thyme fights respiratory infections and winter fatigue. It also helps digestive comfort and has extraordinary health and beauty benefits.

The 5 main properties of thyme infusion

1. A powerful immune system stimulant

Thyme is the protective plant of immunity par excellence. Naturally rich in phenols, it has major antiseptic, antibiotic and antibacterial virtues. It is particularly effective against respiratory tract ailments common in winter, linked to colds and infections, and its action against bronchitis has been demonstrated in clinical studies.

It is frequently used in herbal teas to help fight colds, and in gargle to soothe sore throats and oral infections. Its expectorant properties also make it a great ally in the treatment of coughs: it makes the mucus thinner and helps evacuate it from the respiratory tract, making breathing easier. Take advantage of its benefits in cases of bronchitis, asthma, flu, laryngitis, sinusitis or more severe diseases such as whooping cough.

2. Antioxidant properties

Thyme is an interesting source of flavonoids, compounds present in certain plants and known for their antioxidant power. It thus fights against the damage caused by free radicals, highly reactive molecules that are believed to be involved in the development of certain cancers and age-related diseases. It is one of the herbs richest in antioxidants, hence the importance of consuming it regularly.

3. A defender of the uro-digestive system

For digestion, thyme is a plant that stimulates the appetite and relieves many ailments. Its carminative properties help to reduce gas, while the phenols it contains give it an antispasmodic action that relieves intestinal cramps. Thyme tea is thus recommended in cases of difficult digestion, bloating or aerophagia. Its antiseptic and anti-parasitic active ingredients also combat digestive disorders such as diarrhoea or intestinal worms.

Regarding urinary infections, thyme tea helps to fight cystitis, urethritis or prostatitis. It also helps to regulate the menstrual cycle.

Thyme tea is also an excellent source of vitamin K, necessary for the production of proteins that play a role in blood clotting and also participate in bone formation. Two teaspoons of dried thyme thus provide 60% of the recommended daily value.

It is a good source of manganese, which acts as a cofactor of several enzymes that facilitate a dozen different metabolic processes, and calcium, which contributes to the proper formation of bones and teeth and the maintenance of their health. Calcium also plays an essential role in the contraction of muscles, including the heart.

Finally, fresh thyme is also a source of vitamin C, which protects against infections, promotes the absorption of iron from plants and accelerates healing.

5. A beauty ally of choice

Thanks to its antiseptic and healing properties, thyme infusion can be used externally to fight skin infections, heal wounds and soothe pimples and redness. Apply a compress soaked in the infusion to relieve sunburn, small wounds, scrapes and bruises. Its effectiveness is also recognized for the treatment of fungus, herpes, and more broadly for a whole range of skin conditions, including shingles.

For all oral and dental care, thyme infusion can be used as a mouthwash or gargle: it heals and maintains the health of teeth and gums, fights bad breath and cavities.

After removing make-up, replace your usual tonic with a cooled infusion for a purifying and invigorating effect.

To tone the whole body, pour a litre of thyme infusion into your bath. This helps to relieve rheumatism, arthritis and muscular pain. Finally, to relieve athlete's foot and ingrown toenails, soak your feet in a basin filled with the infusion.