Thy Health Dictionary

A pathologic thyroid hyperfunction. It is sometimes referred to as exophthalmic goiter. An overt disease, sometimes life-threatening, it is very different from the moderately elevated basal metabolism some constitutional types manifest under stress.... thyrotoxicosis

A tumour of the THYMUS GLAND. Such tumours are rare and are classi?ed according to the variety of thymus tissue from which they develop. Epithelial thymomas grow slowly and rarely spread. If the tumour arises from LYMPHOID TISSUE, it may progress to a generalised non-Hodgkin’s LYMPHOMA. Another variety is a thymic TERATOMA which is normally benign in women but malignant in men. Thymomas may affect the working of the immune system (see IMMUNITY), increasing the likelihood of infection. They are also associated with MYASTHENIA GRAVIS – an autoimmune disorder; removal of the gland may cure the disorder.... thymoma

Surgical removal of the THYROID GLAND. Partial thyroidectomy – removal of part of the gland – is sometimes done in patients with hyperthyroidism (see under THYROID GLAND, DISEASES OF) when drug treatment has failed to control the disorder.... thyroidectomy

See under THYROID GLAND, DISEASES OF.... thyroiditis

A rare disease that accounts for around 1 per cent of all cancers, cancer of the THYROID GLAND usually presents as an isolated hard nodule in the neck. The rate at which the nodule grows depends upon the patient’s age and type of cancer cell. Pain is not usually a feature, but the increasing size may result in the tumour pressing on vital structures in the neck – for example, the nerves controlling the LARYNX (resulting in hoarseness) and the PHARYNX (causing di?culty in swallowing). If more than one nodule is present, they are likely to be benign, not malignant. Treatment is by surgical removal after which the patient will need to take THYROXINE for the rest of his or her life. Radioactive iodine is usually given after surgery to destroy any residual cancerous cells. If treated early, the outlook is good.... thyroid cancer

A highly vascular organ situated in front of the neck. It consists of a narrow isthmus crossing the windpipe close to its upper end, and joining together two lateral lobes which run upwards, one on each side of the LARYNX. The gland is therefore shaped somewhat like a horseshoe, each lateral lobe being about 5 cm (2 inches) long and the isthmus about 12 mm (••• inch) wide, and it is ?rmly bound to the larynx. The weight of the thyroid gland is about 28·5 grams (1 ounce), but it is larger in females than in males and in some women increases in size during MENSTRUATION. It often reaches an enormous size in the condition known as GOITRE (see also THYROID GLAND, DISEASES OF).

Function The chief function of the thyroid gland is to produce a hormone (see HORMONES) rich in iodine – THYROXINE, which controls the rate of body METABOLISM. Thus, if it is de?cient in infants they fail to grow and suffer LEARNING DISABILITY, a condition formerly known as CRETINISM. If the de?ciency develops in adult life, the individual becomes obese, lethargic, and develops a coarse skin, a condition known as hypothyroidism (see under THYROID GLAND, DISEASES OF). Overactivity of the thyroid, or hyperthyroidism, results in loss of weight, rapid heart action, anxiety, overactivity and increased appetite. (See THYROID GLAND, DISEASES OF – Thyrotoxicosis.)

The production of the thyroid hormone is controlled by a hormone of the PITUITARY GLAND – the thyrotrophic hormone.... thyroid gland

(T4) A crystalline substance, containing IODINE, isolated from the THYROID GLAND and possessing the properties of thyroid extract. It has also been synthesised. It is used in patients with defective function of the thyroid, such as myxoedema (see THYROID GLAND, DISEASES OF

– Hypothyroidism).... thyroxine

See Tomillo.... thyme

A cell that develops in the THYMUS GLAND, probably from a stem cell of bone marrow. It is a precursor of T-lymphocytes originating in the gland (see LYMPHOCYTE).... thymocyte

The iodine-containing protein that is stored in the thyroid gland. It is converted into circulating thyroxines when the thyroid is stimulated by TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) from the pituitary (in turn stimulated by the hypothalamus, where thyroxine levels are actually monitored). See: T4... thyroglobulin

The largest cartilage in the LARYNX and forms the prominence of the Adam’s apple in front of the neck.... thyroid cartilage

A gland that forms part of the immune system.

The thymus lies behind the sternum and consists of 2 lobes that join in front of the trachea.

Each lobe is made of lymphoid tissue consisting of lymphocytes, epithelium, and fat.

The thymus conditions lymphocytes to become T-cells.

It plays a part in the immune response until puberty, gradually enlarging during this time.

After puberty, it shrinks, but some glandular tissue remains until middle-age.... thymus

Linn.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Smaller var., equated with E. thymifolia, is found in tropical plains and low hills of India, ascending to 1,750 m. Bigger var., E. pilulifera/E. hirta Linn. is found in warmer parts of India from Punjab eastwards, and southwards to Kanyakumari.

Ayurvedic: Dudhi (smaller var.), Dugdhikaa, Naagaarjuni, Swaaduparni.

Siddha/Tamil: Sittrapaladi.

Action: Plant—antispasmodic, bronchodilator, antiasthmat- ic (used in bronchial asthma), galactagogue (also used for spermatorrhoea). Root—used in amenorrhoea. Latex—used in ringworm, dandruff. Leaf, seed and latex—purgative. A decoction of the plant, with honey, is given to treat haematuria.

Aerial parts gave epitaraxerol, n- hexacosanol, euphorbol, two derivatives of deoxyphorbol-OAC, 24-meth- ylene cycloartenol and quercetin galactoside. Co-carcinogenic activity is due to phorbol derivatives. The plant exhibits antimicrobial activity due to alkaloids.

Dosage: Whole plant—10-20 g paste. (CCRAS.)

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Native to Africa; naturalized in the warmer parts of India.

English: Milk-Bush, Milk Hedge, Indian tree Spurge, Aveloz, Petroleum Plant

Ayurvedic: Saptalaa, Saatalaa.

Siddha/Tamil: Tirukalli.

Folk: Angulia-thuuhar.

Action: Purgative, emetic, antiasthmatic, bechic. Used for whooping cough, asthma, dyspepsia, biliousness, jaundice, enlargement of spleen, leucorrhoea. Latex—applied externally on warts.

Used as a purgative and for rheumatism and neuralgia. Stem bark—used for gastralgia, colic, asthma.

The latex contains an ingol ester besides triterpenoids, euphorbinol and cycloeuphordenol.

Presence of a number of ingenol and phorbol esters (diterpenoids), and tri- terpenoids are reported from the plant. The stem gave hentriacontane, hentri- acontanol, beta-sitosterol, Me-ellagic and ellagic acids and kaempferol glu- coside.

The latex is a weak tumour promoter.... euphorbia thymifolia

Lemon Thyme Tea is popular for treating infections, congestion problems, calming and relaxing the senses.  Lemon thyme (thymus citriodorus) can be recognized by its lace-shaped, light green colored leaves and lemon scent. Due to its aromatic leaves, lemon thyme is used as a flavoring agent for many dishes, especially those involving fish, chicken and vegetables. The constituents of lemon thyme tea include geraniol, esters, nerol, citronellol, citral and thymol. The essential oil that is extracted from the leaves contains a higher level of these constituents than the actual leaves. How To Make Lemon Thyme Tea You can brew Lemon Thyme Tea by placing small dried leaves in a kettle of boiled water. Let the mix steep for about 5-7 minutes. Then, using a strainer to catch the leaves, pour the tea into your cup. Lemon Thyme Tea Benefits

• Helps fight asthma in children.
• Prevents infections caused by viruses, fungi or bacteria.
• Provides relaxation.
• It can be gargled and used as a deodorizing mouthwash.
• Facilitates good digestion.
• Boosts your immune system.

Lemon Thyme Side Effects Like in the case of Lemon Verbena Tea , there are a few side effects that you sould keep in mind when drinking Lemon Thyme Tea:

• If you suffer from allergies, avoid drinking Lemon Thyme Tea.
• Do not drink Lemon Thyme Tea if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Avoid over-consumption

Lemon Thyme Tea is a wonderful tea with a tasty lemon flavor. Make sure you read the side effects listed above and stay away from them!... lemon thyme tea

Nees.

Family: Acanthaceae.

Habitat: The sub-tropical Himalayas, Upper Gangetic Plain, Bihar, North Bengal and Assam.

Folk: Dieng-soh kajut (Meghalaya), Chuhai (Bihar), Titaaphul (Assam).

Action: Whole plant—used like Adhatoda vasica in whooping cough and menorrhagia. Fruits and leaves—burnt and prescribed for fevers. The leaves are reported to contain diterpene lactone, phlogantholide A and its glucoside.

A related species, P. jenkinsii C. B. Clarke, found in Assam, is also known as Titaaphul. A decoction of leaves is given for diseases of spleen and liver and for fevers.... phlogacanthus thyrsiflorus

(Greek) The shield-bearer Thyrah, Thira, Thirah... thyra

Thyme Tea has been used since the old times to cure respiratory problems thanks to a very important volatile oil called thymol that acts as an antiseptic. Thyme is a perennial edible herb with small green leaves and lavender purple flowers. The best thing about it is that can be harvested all year round, even if in the winter the roots are frozen and dried and you need to pay more attention. Thyme is usually pest free, but if you’re thinking about growing it in your backyard, watch out for greenfly. Thyme Tea Properties Thyme Tea is usually added in cures concerning coughs, cold or fever episodes, not to mention its anti-fungal properties. Thanks to this particular quality, Thyme Tea is used to treat athlete’s foot and other skin conditions. The main ingredient of this tea is thymol, which has been discovered recently. However, people used to drink Thyme Tea for ages thanks to its curative properties. Thyme Tea Benefits The benefits of Thyme Tea are many, starting with its wonderful help concerning chest and respiratory problems, sore throat or even flatulence. Also, Thyme Tea it’s a great remedy for menstrual pains and premenstrual symptoms as well. The thymol found in this tea is used by the great medical companies to produce mouthwashes to treat gums infections and any other respiratory track inflammation. Thyme Tea had expectorant properties and it’s prescribed by many doctors as an adjuvant in clearing lung mucus. And let’s not forget the wonderful benefits that Thyme Tea offers when treating some of the digestive track problems such as excessive flatulence, nausea, indigestion, colic and loss of appetite. Aside from that, you can apply Thyme leaves on your cuts and opened wounds in order to disinfect and calm the affected area. How to make Thyme Tea Preparing Thyme Tea is easy. If you want to make 2 cups of tea, you need 2 cups of boiling water and 2 teaspoons of Thyme leaves. First, finely chop the herbs and pour the boiling water over it. Let it steep for about 10 or 15 minutes, depending on how concentrated you want it to be. You can drink it hot or keep it in your refrigerator and drink it cold whenever you want. However, don’t let the herbs boil too much: boiled plants lose their curative properties and you’ll not be able to try Thyme Tea’s wonderful benefits. Thyme Tea Side Effects According to many herbalists, drinking too much Thyme Tea can cause allergic reactions in your body or even increase its toxicity level. Also, if you are allergic to rosemary, basil, catmint, hyssop, oregano and celery, you’ll also be allergic to this tea. The best thing you can do is talk to your doctor before starting a treatment based on Thyme Tea. If you don’t know which aliments and teas cause you allergic reactions, see a specialist before taking any type of herbal treatment. Thyme Tea Contraindications Do not take Thyme Tea if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Also, if you are experiencing vomiting episodes, it is best to talk to your doctor before making any move. Since Thyme Tea causes a highly expectorant reaction, it is indicated to drink a small quantity of it in order to avoid ulcers and other gastric problems. Drinking Thyme Tea usually causes no problem if you don’t drink more than 2 cups per day. So, if you have a sore throat and you are willing to try a natural remedy, Thyme Tea can be the right answer. Just pay attention to our indications and enjoy the wonderful benefits of this tea!... thyme tea treats menstrual pains

The thymus gland was given its name by Galen in the second century AD because of its resemblance to a bunch of thyme ?owers. It has two lobes and lies in the upper part of the chest. The centre (cortex) resembles LYMPHOID TISSUE and is made up of masses of small round cells called thymocytes (see THYMOCYTE; LYMPHOCYTE). The medulla is more loosely cellular and consists of a stroma which contains far fewer lymphocytes than are in the cortex.

The thymus gland is a vital part of the immunological system. Stem cells (see STEM CELL) from the BONE MARROW come to the thymus where they develop into immunologically competent cells. There are two distinct populations of lymphocytes. One is dependent on the presence of the thymus (Tlymphocytes); the other is independent of the thymus (B-lymphocytes). Both are concerned with immune responses (see IMMUNITY). The T-lymphocyte is a cell which in the absence of antigenic stimulation (see ANTIGEN) circulates through the blood, lymph nodes and back into the circulation again over a period of more than ten years. It performs a policing role, awaiting recognition of foreign material which it is able to identify as such. It reacts by multiplication and transformation and these are the ingredients of the immune response. B-lymphocytes are produced in the bone marrow and are concerned with the production of the circulating humoral ANTIBODIES.

The most common clinical disorder associated with abnormality of the thymus is MYASTHENIA GRAVIS. Ten per cent of patients with myasthenia gravis will have a tumour of the thymus, whilst the remainder will have in?ammatory changes in the thymus called thymitis.... thymus gland

... thyroid gland, diseases of

A hormone (see HORMONES) produced and released by the HYPOTHALAMUS which stimulates the release of THYROTROPHINSTIMULATING HORMONE (TSH) by the PITUITARY GLAND.... thyrotrophin-releasing hormone (trh)

A hormone (see HORMONES) manufactured and released by the anterior part of the PITUITARY GLAND which stimulates the THYROID GLAND to manufacture and release thyroid hormones (THYROXINE and TRI-IODOTHYRONINE).... thyrotrophin-stimulating hormone (tsh)

Linn.

Family: Labiatae; Lamiaceae.

Habitat: Native to North America; also found in temperate Himalayas from Kashmir to Nepal; grown in gardens in western India.

English: Mother-of-thyme, Wild Thyme. Thymus vulgaris (Garden Thyme) is found in the Nilgiris at higher elevations.

Ayurvedic: Ajagandhaa, Vana- Yavaani. (Not to be confused with Yavaani, Ajmodaa, Shataahvaa, Raajikaa and Tilaparni.)

Unani: Haashaa, Jangali Pudinaa. Thysanolaena agrostis Nees.

Action: Antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antispasmodic, mild sedative, expectorant. T. serpyllum and T. vulgaris L. are used for coughs and common cold.

Key application: German Commission E approved T. vulgaris for symptoms of bronchitis, whooping cough and catarrhs of the upper respiratory tracts. Also to treat stomatitis. (ESCOP.)

The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia recognizes expectorant activity of T. serpyllum.

T. serpyllum contains more linalool and p-cymol than Garden Thyme (T. vulgaris). Major constituent of the volatile oil of both the species (highly variable) is thymol; with carvacrol (lesser amount in T. serpyllum, higher in T. vulgaris), 1,8-cineole, borneol, geraniol, linalool. bornyl and lina- lyl acetate, thymol methyl ether and alpha-pinene.

Flavonoids include apigenin, lute- olin, thymonin, naringenin; other constituents include labiatic acid, caffeic acid, tannins.

The flavonoid fraction has shown to have a potent effect on smooth muscle on guinea-pig trachea and ileum.

Thymol is expectorant and antiseptic. Thymol and carvacrol are spasmolytic. Thymol is also urinary tract antiseptic and anthelmintic.

Dosage: Whole plant—3–5 g powder. (CCRAS.)... thymus serpyllum

An autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system develops antibodies against its own thyroid gland cells. As a result, the thyroid gland cannot produce enough thyroid hormones, a condition known as hypothyroidism. The principal symptoms of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis are tiredness, muscle weakness, and weight gain, and the thyroid gland becomes enlarged.

Diagnosis is confirmed by blood tests.

Treatment is by thyroid hormone replacement therapy, which is life-long.... hashimoto’s thyroiditis

See moxisylyte.... thymoxamine

A set of congenital defects caused by failure of the thyroglossal duct to disappear during embryonic development. In embryos, this duct runs from the base of the tongue to the thyroid gland. Abnormal development may cause the duct to persist in its entirety or partly as a cyst. A cyst usually becomes infected and swollen, which may lead to formation of a fistula. The cyst and any remaining parts of the duct are removed.... thyroglossal disorders

A group of blood tests used to evaluate the function of the thyroid gland and to detect or confirm any thyroid disorder. The thyroid hormones T3 and T4 are measured, as well as thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), the pituitary gland hormone that stimulates the thyroid gland.... thyroid-function tests

Nees.

Synonym: T. maxima (Roxb.) Kuntze.

Family: Gramineae; Poaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated in gardens.

English: Bouquet-Grass, Broom- Grass, Tiger-Grass, Amliso.

Ayurvedic: Juurnaa, Juurnaahv.

Folk: Junaar, Pirlu.

Action: Root—a decoction is used as a mouthwash during fever, also after parturition.... thysanolaena agrostis

Disorders of the thyroid gland may cause hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, or enlargement or distortion of the gland. Myxoedema, Graves’ disease, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis are common disorders. Goitre may sometimes occur with no accompanying abnormality of thyroid function. In rare cases, the gland is absent at birth, producing severe cretinism. Sometimes it develops in an abnormal position in the neck, causing, in rare cases, difficulty in swallowing or breathing.

A genetic disorder may impair the thyroid’s ability to secrete hormones and goitre may result. Thyroid infection is uncommon and leads to thyroiditis. Viral infection can cause extreme pain and temporary hyperthyroidism. Hormonal changes during puberty or pregnancy may cause a degree of goitre temporarily. Hyperthyroidism due to excessive production of by the pituitary gland is rare but can occur as a result of a pituitary tumour.

Because iodine is necessary for the production of thyroid hormone, its deficiency may lead to goitre. Severe iodine deficiency in children may cause myxoedema. (See also thyroid cancer.)

thyroid hormones The 3 hormones produced by the thyroid gland are thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which regulate metabolism, and calcitonin, which helps to regulate calcium levels in the body.... thyroid gland, disorders of

Techniques, such as radionuclide scanning and ultrasound scanning, that are used to provide information about the location, anatomy, and function of the thyroid gland.... thyroid scanning

(thymo-) combining form denoting the thymus.... thym

n. surgical removal of the thymus.... thymectomy

combining form denoting a condition of the mind. Example: cyclothymia (alternations of mood).... thymia

failure of development of the *thymus, resulting in T-lymphocyte deficiency and compromised immunity.... thymic aplasia

n. a compound containing thymine and the sugar deoxyribose. See also nucleoside.... thymidine

n. one of the nitrogen-containing bases (see pyrimidine) occurring in the nucleic acid DNA.... thymine

n. inflammation of the thymus.... thymitis

combining form denoting the thyroid gland. Example: thyroglossal (relating to the thyroid gland and tongue).... thyro

n. see calcitonin.... thyrocalcitonin

n. a swelling of the thyroid gland. See goitre.... thyrocele

adj. relating to the thyroid cartilage and hyoid bone. The thyrohyoid ligaments form part of the *larynx; contraction of the thyrohyoid muscle raises the larynx.... thyrohyoid

a rarely seen but well-documented alteration in the shape of the nails resembling *clubbing but unique to Graves’ disease (see thyrotoxicosis). It is often associated with formation of new bone seen on X-rays of the hands and wrists, which is said to resemble bubbles along the surface of the bones.... thyroid acropachy

autoantibodies directed against the cells of the thyroid gland, which serve as a marker of autoimmune thyroid disease. There are two main types: antibodies directed against the thyroid peroxidise (TPO) enzyme; and anti-thyroglobulin, directed against the thyroid colloid (see thyroid gland). The highest level of thyroid antibodies is found in *Hashimoto’s disease.... thyroid antibodies

an iodine-containing substance, synthesized and secreted by the thyroid gland, that is essential for normal metabolic processes and mental and physical development. There are two thyroid hormones, *triiodothyronine and *thyroxine, which are formed from *thyroglobulin. Lack of these hormones gives rise to *cretinism in infants and *myxoedema in adults. Excessive production of thyroid hormones gives rise to *thyrotoxicosis.... thyroid hormone

(TSH, thyrotrophin) a hormone, synthesized and secreted by the anterior pituitary gland under the control of *thyrotrophin-releasing hormone, that stimulates activity of the thyroid gland. Raised levels of TSH are found in primary *hypothyroidism. Normal or low TSH levels in the presence of a low serum thyroxine are found in secondary hypothyroidism and the *euthyroid sick syndrome.... thyroid-stimulating hormone

(thyroid storm) a life-threatening condition due to an acute and severe exacerbation of previously undiagnosed or inadequately treated *thyrotoxicosis. It often follows infections, childbirth, nonthyroid surgery, or trauma but can occur without an obvious cause. The presenting features are a fever, severe agitation, nausea and vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pains. An accelerated heart rate and irregularity of the heart rhythm can cause heart failure, and psychotic episodes or coma can result. Blood tests will reveal hyperthyroidism and may also show altered liver function, high blood sugar, high calcium levels, a high white blood cell count, and often anaemia. Treatment is with intravenous fluids, oxygen, antithyroid drugs (such as *carbimazole or *propylthiouracil), high-dose iodide solution (see Lugol’s solution), high-dose steroids, and beta blockers. The patient must be cooled and given antipyretics, such as paracetamol. Any underlying cause must also be treated.... thyroid crisis

see thyroid crisis.... thyroid storm

n. a surgical procedure performed on the thyroid cartilage of the larynx to alter the characteristics of the voice.... thyroplasty

n. surgical incision of either the thyroid cartilage in the neck or of the thyroid gland itself.... thyrotomy

a condition in which attacks of sudden weakness and flaccidity occur in patients with *thyrotoxicosis, seen most often in males of Asian descent. The attacks last from hours to days; they can be prevented by potassium supplements and subsequent treatment of the thyrotoxicosis.... thyrotoxic periodic paralysis

n. see thyroid-stimulating hormone.... thyrotrophin

(TRH) a hormone from the hypothalamus (in the brain) that acts on the anterior pituitary gland to stimulate the release of *thyroid-stimulating hormone. A preparation of TRH (protirelin) may be given by intravenous injection to test thyroid gland function and to estimate reserves of thyroid-stimulating hormone in the pituitary.... thyrotrophin-releasing hormone

Thymus vulgaris

FAMILY: Lamiaceae (Labiatae)

SYNONYMS: T. aestivus, T. ilerdensis, T. webbianus, T. valentianus, French thyme, garden thyme, red thyme (oil), white thyme (oil).

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: A perennial evergreen subshrub up to 45 cms high with a woody root and much-branched upright stem. It has small, grey-green, oval, aromatic leaves and pale purple or white flowers.

DISTRIBUTION: Native to Spain and the Mediterranean region; now found throughout Asia Minor, Algeria, Turkey, Tunisia, Israel, the USA, Russia, China and central Europe. The oil is mainly produced in Spain but also in France, Israel, Greece, Morocco, Algeria, Germany and the USA.

OTHER SPECIES: There are numerous varieties of thyme – the common thyme is believed to have derived from the wild thyme or mother-of-thyme (T. serpyllum), which is also used to produce an essential oil called serpolet, similar in effect to the common thyme oil.

Another species used for the production of the so-called red thyme oil is particularly the Spanish sauce thyme (T. zygis), a highly penetrating oil good for cellulitis, sports injuries, etc. (although, like the common thyme, it is a skin irritant). Other species used for essential oil production include lemon thyme (T. citriodorus), a fresh scented oil good for asthma and other respiratory conditions, safe for children. Spanish marjoram (T. Mastichina) is actually botanically classified as a variety of thyme, with which it shares many common properties, despite its common name. Spanish marjoram contains mainly 1,8-cineole (up to 75 per cent) and linalool (up to 20 per cent), so therapeutically has much in common with eucalyptus, being well suited to treating viral and bacterial respiratory infections. See also Botanical Classification section.

HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: One of the earliest medicinal plants employed throughout the Mediterranean region, well known to both Hippocrates and Dioscorides. It was used by the ancient Egyptians in the embalming process, and by the ancient Greeks to fumigate against infectious illness; the name derives from the Greek thymos meaning ‘to perfume’. It is also a long-established culinary herb, especially used for the preservation of meat.

It has a wide range of uses, though in Western herbal medicine its main areas of application are respiratory problems, digestive complaints and the prevention and treatment of infection. In the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia it is indicated for dyspepsia, chronic gastritis, bronchitis, pertussis, asthma, children’s diarrhoea, laryngitis, tonsillitis and enuresis in children.

ACTIONS: Anthelmintic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiputrescent, antirheumatic, antiseptic (intestinal, pulmonary, genito-urinary), antispasmodic, antitussive, antitoxic, aperitif, astringent, aphrodisiac, bactericidal, balsamic, carminative, cicatrisant, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, fungicidal, hypertensive, nervine, revulsive, rubefacient, parasiticide, stimulant (immune system, circulation), sudorific, tonic, vermifuge.

EXTRACTION: Essential oil by water or steam distillation from the fresh or partially dried leaves and flowering tops. 1. ‘Red thyme oil’ is the crude distillate. 2. ‘White thyme oil’ is produced by further redistillation or rectification. (An absolute is also produced in France by solvent extraction for perfumery use.)

CHARACTERISTICS: 1. A red, brown or orange liquid with a warm, spicy-herbaceous, powerful odour. 2. A clear, pale yellow liquid with a sweet, green-fresh, milder scent. It blends well with bergamot, lemon, rosemary, melissa, lavender, lavandin, marjoram, Peru balsam, pine, etc.

PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Thymol and carvacrol (up to 60 per cent), cymene, terpinene, camphene, borneol, linalol; depending on the source it can also contain geraniol, citral and thuyanol, etc.

There are many chemotypes of thyme oil: notably the ‘thymol’ and ‘carvacrol’ types (warming and active); the ‘thuyanol’ type (penetrating and antiviral); and the milder ‘linalol’ or ‘citral’ types (sweet-scented, non-irritant).

SAFETY DATA: Red thyme oil, serpolet (from wild thyme), ‘thymol’ and ‘carvacrol’ type oils all contain quite large amounts of toxic phenols (carvacrol and thymol). They can irritate mucous membranes, cause dermal irritation and may cause sensitization in some individuals. Use in moderation, in low dilution only. They are best avoided during pregnancy.

White thyme is not a ‘complete’ oil and is often adulterated. Lemon thyme and ‘linalol’types are in general less toxic, non-irritant, with less possibility of sensitization – safe for use on the skin and with children.

AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE

Skin care: Abscess, acne, bruises, burns, cuts, dermatitis, eczema, insect bites, lice, gum infections, oily skin, scabies.

Circulation muscles and joints: Arthritis, cellulitis, gout, muscular aches and pains, obesity, oedema, poor circulation, rheumatism, sprains, sports injuries.

Respiratory system: Asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, coughs, laryngitis, sinusitis, sore throat, tonsillitis.

Digestive system: Diarrhoea, dyspepsia, flatulence.

Genito-urinary system: Cystitis, urethritis.

Immune system: Chills, colds, ’flu, infectious diseases.

Nervous system: Headaches, insomnia, nervous debility and stress-related complaints – ‘helps to revive and strengthen both body and mind’..

OTHER USES: The oil is used in mouthwashes, gargles, toothpastes and cough lozenges. ‘Thymol’ is isolated for pharmaceutical use in surgical dressings, disinfectants etc. Used as a fragrance component in soaps, toiletries, aftershaves, perfumes, colognes, etc. Extensively employed by the food and drink industry, especially in meat products.... thyme, common