There are about 300 different varieties of thyme, the most popular one being Thymus vulgaris. It is known as “mother thyme” because of its traditional use for women’s disorders. All Rights Reserved. Thyme is an herb whose story weaves throughout human history. Sizes for all needs from a few ounces to 25 pound bulk, MySpicer.com Thyme is a powerful and popular herb for magical practice. Roman soldiers exchanged sprigs of thyme as a sign of respect. It is one of the herbs used to flavour Benedictine liqueur and is a characteristic seasoning in the traditional English dish jugged hare. History of Thyme Thyme has a deep connection to our fuzzy buzzing friends, bees. This herb has a long history of use in natural medicine and a proven track record as a natural medicine that can fight off bacteria. The origins of thyme can be traced back to ancient societies throughout the Mediterranean, though it’s now grown and cooked with all over the world. The author of this script noted that thyme was an antiseptic. Muller believed this was the plant’s way of attracting insects first to the more showy male pollen-bearing flower prior to visiting the less conspicuous female flowers. Hellenistic and Roman gardens almost always contained rosemary bushes. The following is adapted from an old Benedictine recipe for mushroom-thyme soup. What is the difference between Madras Curry Powder vs. Curry Powder, Difference between ground red pepper and cayenne pepper. The word ‘thyme’ has been derived from the Greek word ‘thumus’, which means courage. Greeks and Romans burned bundles of thyme to purify their temples and homes, and to evoke a spirit of courage in those who inhaled it. 3850 Nome Street Denver, CO 80239. It was even said that a bath in warm water liberally dosed with thyme could stop the effects of poison after it was inadvertently consumed. The Victorians placed their own fanciful spin on the mystical properties of thyme. The ancient Greeks on the other hand used the spice as incense in their temples and bathed with it – it was believed that that the spice was a source of courage. Now that you’ve heard the tale of thyme, celebrate the herb’s rich history in your own kitchen. Add salt and pepper to taste. Burning thyme in your house was believed to help get rid of insects and it was also used as a fumigator for early beekeeping in Rome. In the Roman era, it was widely held that eating thyme either before or during a meal would protect you from poison. Thyme has been used since ancient times for its culinary, aromatic and medicinal properties. It’s about thyme. Thyme has been widely acknowledged as one of the most used herbs since as far back as ancient Egypt, where it was used in part of the embalming process. When the Black Death hit, thyme was used in so many medicines as a treatment. Sauté the garlic and shallot in the olive oil over low heat until the shallots are translucent. The Sumerians were the first to discover thyme’s antiseptic properties and used it as an anti-fungal and a disinfectant. Origin and History. All along, of course, thyme remained one of Europe’s favorite cooking herbs (along with the ever-popular rosemary and sage). Thyme is appreciated for its antiseptic and antioxidant properties, it is an excellent tonic and is used in treating respiratory diseases and a variety of other ailments. Thyme was also often given to Roman soldiers upon their leaving for battle, as a sign of courage. For thousands of years, thyme has been a superstar of the herb garden. Historians believe that the ancient Sumerians were the first to cultivate thyme, possibly as early as 5,000 years ago. They considered a patch of wild thyme in the woods to be a clear and incontrovertible sign that fairies had recently danced the night away on that very spot. Twice a week we compile our most fascinating features and deliver them straight to you. Pepper. Though there was little science to these remedies, one of the chemical compounds found in thyme is a powerful antiseptic. Experts in language tell us that thyme's name was derived from the Greek word thumus, or courage. Like other herbs and spices, it’s packed with disease-fighting nutrients and antioxidants. As an antidote, a symbol of bravery and a kitchen staple, thyme has a long and storied past. Thyme is most commonly paired with rosemary and sage, but it actually goes well with a variety of other spices, like garlic seasoning, oregano, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. The ancient Egyptians used thyme as an embalming fluid. Thyme comes in different varieties as well. History of Thyme Tea. Thyme is a wonderful herb with a pleasant, pungent, clover flavor. FACT CHECK: We strive for accuracy and fairness. Thyme was also a symbol of courage and admiration with the phrase "the smell of thyme" being a saying that reflected praise unto its subject. It offers protection, but more notably is well-known for its power to grant courage. Its essential oil- thymol is used as a disinfectant and an antiseptic and Thyme goes well in Italian dishes or in dishes with sage and rosemary. As an antidote for poison, a plague preventative, a symbol of bravery in battle and a stalwart companion to the grave, thyme has a far more storied past than you’d think if you were walking past it in the supermarket today. According to the writings of Horace (65 BC – 8 BC), the Romans grew thyme extensively for bee culture. Ancient Egyptians used thyme for embalming.The ancient Greeks used it in their baths and burnt it as incense in their temples.They believed that thyme was a source of courage.It was thought that the spread of thyme throughout Europe was thanks to the Romans, as they used it to purify their rooms.In the European Middle Ages, the herb was placed under pillows. Many chili recipes call for thyme along with a combination of other herbs such as basil, rosemary, marjoram, or sage. In French cuisine, thyme is an essential ingredient in bouquet garni along with celery, parsley and bay leaf. Here, we look at them in brief: Thyme has been widely acknowledged as one of the most used herbs since as far back as ancient Egypt, where it was used in part of the embalming process. The History of Thyme The use of thyme as an embalming ingredient goes way back to the ancient Egyptians. Dried chiles, house blends and dried vegetables. Thyme is a symbol of strength and courage. Many of the day’s medicinal concoctions—from posies worn about the neck to poultices applied directly to plague-blistered skin—included the herb as a major ingredient. Salt Evidence suggests that the ancient Egyptians first used this herb for embalming rituals many thousands of years ago. Common thyme has a very long history of folk use for a wide range of ailments. Thyme is a small garden herb that’s been used even since Ancient Egypt. ... Changes of Thyme. Thyme's association with bravery continued throughout medieval times when it … Since ancient times, thyme has been associated with bravery and even used as a natural anti-depressant. In the 5th century B.C., Hippocrates, the famous Greek physician, listed approximately 400 herbs in common use. Fresh dried herbs and spices in whole, ground and powdered form. 1 tablespoon olive oil Available in both fresh or dried, this herb is easily found in most supermarkets year-round. Thyme is an herb. In ancient Greece, thyme was widely used for its aromatic qualities, being burned as incense in sacred temples. Unit A Thyme is also a common component of pizza sauce. Warriors of old would stuff thyme in the shoes or wear it as a badge of honor. This herb is symbolic of courage and activity and was used widely by the ancients to treat hookworm. At various periods in history, Thyme has been used to treat melancholy, reproductive system ailments, and to improve digestion. Thyme is known to produce flowers that are male on the first day and female on the second along with flowers that are decidedly only female. This herb has been a staple in southern European and Mediterranean cuisines for centuries. The association with courage and bravery persisted into the Middle Ages. This theory was mentioned by Neltje Blanchan in 1900, and as far as our research indicates, this theory rem… Wild thyme received its botanical name from th… The ancient Greeks used it in their baths and burnt it as incense in their temples, believing it was a source of courage. Monasteries, which served for hundreds of years as the keepers of medicinal knowledge as well as the art of keeping a good kitchen garden, made frequent use of thyme in their breads, soups and roasts. For example, the ancient Egyptians used thyme as an embalming fluid. View our Gluten Free Statement here or contact us with questions. History. Wholesale herbs and spices and quality gourmet ingredients. Thyme was a traditional gift offered to men going into battle. © 2021 A&E Television Networks, LLC. History of Tessiers Changes of Thyme. Archaeologists have found ancient writings in Egypt discussing the use of it and it has been identified as one of the ingredients used in mummification. It’s even been said that thyme helps prevent colon and breast cancer. A Brief History of Thyme : And Other Herbs Thyme’s fragrance has inspired poets from Virgil to Kipling; and it is particularly strong on the warm, sunny hillsides of the Mediterranean. Bring to a rolling boil and then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes. HISTORY reviews and updates its content regularly to ensure it is complete and accurate. But the Victorians also had more prosaic uses for thyme. Thyme’s reputation as a healer and protector goes back thousands of years. The next featured herb in our History of Spice series is thyme. The Romans thought that eating thyme before or during a meal would cure poisons, making it especially popular among Roman emperors. The use of thyme stretches all the way back to the beginning of written records. A story steeped in the myth and tradition of many a varied civilization. If you have additional questions about any of our kosher products, please contact us. Today the plant is common throughout North America, but it originated in the southern Mediterranean. Throughout history, Thyme has been a cure for poison, a pain reliever, a sign of courage and farewell, and a home for fairies. When the Black Death struck in the late 1340s, millions of people turned to thyme for relief and protection. Carbon dating traces those drawings back to between 13,000 and 25,000 B.C. In Greek times thyme was a symbol of graceful elegance and emblematic of human activity: “To smell of Thyme was an expression of praise.” Way back in the days of the ancient Egypt, Thyme was rubbed on a corpse along with other herbs like rosemary before being wrapped as part of the mummification process. Throughout history, Thyme has been a cure for poison, a pain reliever, a sign of courage and farewell, and a home for fairies. Thyme (thymus vulgaris) is an herb that can be consumed fresh or dried. Blood pressure and cholesterol both play a significant role in heart health. 2 medium shallots, finely chopped For obvious reasons, this made the herb a particular favorite of the emperors. The history of thyme as being in use as both a seasoning and a medicinal herb for goes back more than 3000 years. 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced Common Name: Thyme Scientific Name: Thymus vulgaris Other Names: Garden Thyme, Thym Vulgaire Description Thyme is a small garden herb that’s been used even since Ancient Egypt. Each room is artiscally composed with unique displays of folkart and primitive reproductions, and one of a kind pieces from juried, award winning artists. 4 ouces shiitake mushrooms, stems removed and caps thinly sliced Here, on the other hand, you will find “A Brief History of Thyme” (sorry, we had to!). The word thyme stems from the Greek, thymon, meaning to offer incense or sacrifice. In the days before refrigeration and food safety laws, including thyme in recipes gave you at least some protection against spoiled meat and foodborne disease. 1 clove garlic, minced 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped It smells like summer to us! In the Middle Ages, ladies would embroider a sprig of Thyme into scarves they gave to their errant knights. The next featured herb in our History of Spice series is thyme. Ancient Romans and Greeks crowned their leaders with dill and laurel. It’s used in lots of different sauces and Italian dishes, and also goes nicely in a dry rub. Thyme is indigenous to the Mediterranean with many species coming from an area that encompasses southern Europe, western Asia and North Africa. Its uses have not always been purely culinary, however. Add the vegetable stock. Wild thyme, or Thymus serpillum and Thymes citriodorus (citrus thyme) are also vary popular varieties of the herb. A Brief History of Thyme : And Other Herbs [Seymour, Miranda, MacFarlane, Jane] on Amazon.com. It is used to flavour a wide range of foods, including poultry, stuffings, fish, eggs, meats, sauces, soups, vegetables, cheeses, and pastas. Add the mushrooms, thyme and sage, and stir together over low heat for about 1 minute. Thyme was also associated with courage, bravery and strength in ancient times. The late, great Stephen Hawking wrote “A Brief History of Time”. Items marked with the following symbol in the product description indicate that the product is inherently gluten free. The tradition of giving thyme as a farewell gift to soldiers continued on throughout the middle ages of England, where it also caught on as a popular spice for use in cooking. The history of Rosemary is a story covering thousands of years. Changes of Thyme features the Windsor chairs of Laurence Krause and Pennsylvania Folk accessories. The Egyptians used it to embalm their dead, and the Romans threw Thyme on … -- Thyme Magical Properties and Uses The Romans also used dill to purify the air. Starting with its strong association to the ancient Greeks and Romans, rosemary captivated these peoples for its mystical and healing powers. Thyme is an extremely fragrant herb with thin, woody stems and small, pungent leaves. Thyme is native to Eurasia and is cultivated throughout the world. 6 cups vegetable stock For thousands of years, thyme has been a superstar of the herb garden. The flowers, leaves, and oil are used as medicine. Its botanical designation may have been derived from the Greek word thymon, meaning “courage” as many of their traditions relate to this virtue. *FREE* shipping on qualifying offers. … Thyme is traditional in bouquet garni (along with marjoram, parsley and bay.) In the Victorian Era, nurses would often bandage wounds with a thyme solution. 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped The ancient Egyptians used it as an embalming agent to preserve their deceased pharaohs. A familiar culinary and ornamental herb from the mint family, its pleasantly lemony fragrance is a frequent flavoring in poultry and vegetable dishes. The results are stunning. Known as thymol, it’s still widely used today in mouthwash, hand sanitizer and acne medication. When worn into battle, thyme might serve double duty: used as an embalming herb since the time of the Egyptians, it was thought to be a powerful aid to those making their passage into the next life. The earliest example we know of is dated back to ancient Sumeria – over 3,000 years ago. There are both fragrant ornamental types as well as culinary thyme varieties which add a savory note to summer soups, grilled meats, and vegetables. In this period, women also often gave knightsand warriors gifts that inclu… Tradition tells that Thyme was in the straw bed of the Virgin Mary and the Christ child. Generations of little girls camped out near remote little plots of creeping thyme, hoping to catch a glimpse of a tribe of woodland fairies. Promotes Heart Health. Traditional uses and benefits of Thyme. The herb is a favourite among bees and was used … Thyme has a long history of use that dates back as far as 2750 BC with Sumerian cuneiform tablets suggesting that Thyme be dried and pulverized with pears, figs and water for use as a poultice. If you’re tired of buying and trying over-the-counter acne medication with no good … In the European Middle Ages, the herb was placed beneath pillows to aid sleep and ward off nightmares. But if you see something that doesn't look right, click here to contact us! The Egyptians also used thyme as a pain reliever, and it was included in many of their medicines. Most soldiers would just cram these fragrant charms into their pockets or purses, but some were known to attach thyme to their clothing or armor as a visible badge of honor. Well before the mechanics of infection were fully understood, 19th-century nurses were bathing bandages in a dilution of thyme in water. Items marked with the following symbol in the product description indicate that the product is kosher. Thyme is still used widely in medicine and cooking today. In Medieval times, knights wore sprigs of thyme on their armor as a sign of courage. Ancient Egyptians used thyme for embalming. "Wild Mountain Thyme" (also known as "Purple Heather" and "Will Ye Go, Lassie, Go?") Thyme is used in many everyday products for things like respiratory health, sinus infection, and even bad breath! The spread of thyme throughout Europe was thought to be due to the Romans, as they used it to purify their rooms and to "give an aromatic flavour to cheese and liqueurs". Thyme is an ordinary plant with an extraordinary background, extending back to the beginnings of recorded history. There is evidence of ancient Egyptians utilizing thyme’s powerful antiseptic properties in … To the Greeks, thyme denoted elegance; and, after bathing, they would include the oil in their massage. 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