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| Dried Thyme |
Dried thyme is a well known culinary spice in Lagos, Nigeria, as opposed to the fresh thyme plant. This is a pity really, as the fresh ones are more superior in nutrients and richer in flavor to the dried ones. Dried thyme, however, are available all year round in local markets and Super markets.
Thyme is a powerful plant and herb with small leaves that are rich in phytonutrients (plant based antioxidants) such as zeaxanthin, lutein, thymonin, luteolin and pigenin. It is also packed full of minerals such as manganese, magnesium, calcium, potassium, iron and selenium.
Calcium and magnesium are essential for the proper development of our teeth and bones. Selenium protects the cells and boosts the body's immunity. Iron is critical for the development of healthy red blood cells and potassium helps to reduce the pressure of the blood.
The thyme spice is also rich in vitamins such as vitamin B, C, K, E; folic acid and beta carotene (a type of vitamin A). All these vitamins are essential in fighting off free radicals and slowing down the aging process. Folic acid is essential for a healthy reproductive system.
The thyme plant, because of its pleasant smell and amazing properties such as anti fungal, antibacterial, antiseptic, antiviral, anti rheumatoid and anti parasitic properties, is a great aromatic herb that can be used to control pain by rubbing into the body during a massage. It also has great medicinal and preservative uses. The major thrust of this article, however, is the culinary and nutritional benefits of thyme.
Thyme, is not only a great smelling spice, it is also a spice that aids digestion and enhances appetite. Thyme aids in treating bacteria infections in the stomach such as diarrhea and other irritable bowel syndrome.
Thyme also acts as a detoxifying agent by aiding the liver in clearing out toxic substances from the body.
The thyme plant is a brain food. It stimulates the nervous system and boosts brain cells. It helps keep your brain young and healthy by fighting against and preventing the onset of brain degenerative diseases such as alzheimers disease, Parkinson and dementia.
Fresh thyme is effective in treating and relieving respiratory infections such as cold, flu, asthma, whooping cough, bronchitis and dry cough.
The thyme herb can be used to ease cramps and reduce bloating during menstruation.
Thyme can also be used in treating mouth infections such as mouth sores, sore throat, tonsillitis, plaque formation and bad breath. You can do this by mixing the spice with warm water and then, using the water to gaggle.
Thyme, like every other natural spice, boosts the body's immunity against diseases.
The health properties in thyme have made it excellently effective in fighting bacterial, viral and fungal infections, thus, helping the body in maintaining a healthy status.
The thyme plant with its tiny leaves, can best be described as 'small but mighty' . But like every other spice, it should be added sparingly to foods because of its intense flavor. Preferably, it should be added to meals when the cooking is almost completed, to enjoy it's medicinal benefits.
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