(Thymus vulgaris / Thymus zygis ct. thymol) Traditionally used to support healthy breathing, immune response, digestion, adrenal and joint function. May ease stress and promote restful sleep. Consider using Thyme ct. linalool for children and the elderly.
Thyme ct linalool is a milder, yet great anti-infectious oil and suitable for children, the elderly and those with sensitive skin. The linalool chemotype (ct) can be used long-term to support immunity and health.
Thyme herb is noted in research as being in the top six of 150 herbs tested to have the highest estradiol and progesterone binding properties. It is not noted in the research which thyme is used (we presume it is vulgaris but don't know the chemotype). It is felt that Thyme essential oil may also possess this quality. This would make thyme a good choice for balancing hormones, relieving menopaual symptoms such as mood swings, hot flashes and insomnia. Estrogen and progestin bioactivity of foods, herbs, and spices
In The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils, Julia Lawless wrote that Thyme is helpful for "fixed pain of a contracted or cramping nature." Thyme Oil Can Inhibit COX2 and Suppress Inflammation Thyme Oil Inhibits COX-2, Beats Ibuprofen for Menses Pain by Case Adams
Thyme Oil: A Natural Antibiotic by Dr. Mercola
Topical: Dilute with a carrier oil, unscented lotion or unscented cream and apply on area of concern or as desired. Consider using a roll-on applicator for ease of application of prediluted oil. Thyme ct thymol is potentially skin-irritating. It must be well diluted and used carefully. Tisserand suggests the maximum topical use at 1.3%. Children: Using in high concentrations may result in skin irritation. Please follow the Dilution Chart on the Babies and Children page but don't exceed the 1.3% dilution. Consider Thyme vulgaris ct. linalool, which is milder and yet efficacious. It is gentle in its action, safe on the skin and mucous membranes. Inhalation: Diffuse or use a personal Nasal Inhaler, preferably mixed with other oils, as it may irritate nasal membranes or skin if inhaled directly from diffuser or bottle, or applied undiluted.
Internal: Thyme ct thymol 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. Caution orally: Anticoagulant medication, major surgery, peptic ulcer, hemophilia and other bleeding disorders (Tisserand p. 255). Click here for more information
Major Surgery, Peptic Ulcer, Hemophilia, Bleeding Disorders: Use caution orally.
Avoid contact with the eyes and other sensitive areas. Essential oils are both lipophilic and hydrophobic. Lipophilic means they are attracted to fat— like the membranes of your eyes and skin. They are also hydrophobic, meaning they do not like water. Applying a carrier oil will create another fat for the essential oil to be attracted to other than the membranes of the eyes or skin. Tisserand suggests: "With essential oils, fatty oil has been suggested as an appropriate first aid treatment, though the advantage of saline [eyewash] is that the eyes can be continually flushed, and this is less easy with fatty oil.” We are not aware of a case where essential oil in the eyes caused permanent injury or long-term discomfort, but if you feel concerned, please call your health care provider.
