(Thymus vulgaris / Thymus zygis) Traditionally used to support a healthy immune response, is considered a nerve tonic and may have an impact on parasites.
The fresh or partially dried leaves and flowering tops of the plant are steam distilled to produce thyme oil. The "first distillation" yields the crude distillate we refer to as Red Thyme oil, which is reddish brown in color and has a warm and spicy aroma. Rectification produces White Thyme oil, a clear or pale-yellow oil with a sweet, fresh and mild aroma. White Thyme oil contains fewer irritants (phenols) than red thyme oil.
Internal: Red Thyme is suitable for internal use within safe parameters if such use is deemed appropriate. We feel that internal use is rarely *needed* and should only be used with respect for how concentrated the oils are. HEO does not advocate internal use of essential oils without appropriate knowledge and understanding of how to administer, for what purpose, how much, which essential oils, safety concerns and so on. In our experience, essential oils are generally more effective used topically with proper dilution or inhaled. Kurt Schnaubelt, Ph.D. notes that "French aromatherapy literature contains many references to using oils orally." He goes on to note that "generally 1 drop is always enough when ingesting essential oils." A potential toxicity hazard could occur when untrained people use essential oils orally and ingest too much.Keep in mind that while medical doctors or health care practitioners may prescribe essential oils for internal use, they are trained and experienced in the safe application of essential oils. It is not a matter of using "French" or "British" methods, it's a matter of experience and appropriate application. Click here for more information; scroll to the "Internal Use" section.
