Page 101 - Lost Book Remedies
P. 101
The Lost Book of Herbal Remedies
Lemon Thyme,
Thymus citriodorus
Lemon thyme is also called citrus thyme. It is easy to
recognize lemon thyme by its aroma and flavor, which
are both very much like lemon. Even better than the
smell are the relaxing benefits and medicinal value of
the herb. It is in the Lamiaceae (Mint) Family.
Identification: Lemon thyme is an evergreen per-
ennial that grows as a mat on the ground. It grows to a
height of 4 inches (10 cm) and spreads to over a foot
away. Its appearance and growth habit is close to that
of English thyme. Lemon Thyme, Forest & Kim Starr, CC by SA 3.0
The leaves are shiny-green with a pale-yellow border Viral, Bacterial, and Fungal Infections: The
around the margins. Some plants have more lemon- anti-microbial properties of lemon thyme make it ef-
yellow leaves or green leaves with pale yellow fective in the fight against most bacterial, fungal, and
splotches. The plant produces flowers in mid to late viral diseases.
Respiratory Problems, Asthma, and Re-
leasing Congestion: Lemon thyme contains many
different beneficial compounds for general health and
for respiratory health. It is an anti-microbial and a de-
congestant.
It opens the airways to help asthmatics breathe better
and to allow phlegm and other mucous to be released
from the body.
Aromatherapy for Asthma: Asthmatics find re-
lief by placing a small pillow filled with dried lemon
thyme under their regular pillow. Sleeping on this pil-
low releases the oils that open the airways and induce
Lemon Thyme flowers, Kor!An (Андрей Корзун), CC by SA 3.0
summer. Flowers may vary from pink to lavender and better sleep.
attract butterflies and bees. Warning: Lemon thyme causes allergic reactions in
highly allergic people. Do not give lemon thyme tea
Edible Use: Lemon thyme is used widely in cooking during pregnancy or while nursing.
to flavor chicken, fish, and vegetable dishes and to
make a relaxing tea. Lemon Thyme Tea: You’ll need 1/2 teaspoon of
dried lemon thyme or 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon thyme
Medicinal Use: Immune Function: Lemon leaves, 1 cup boiling water and honey, optional. Pour
Thyme Tea is a relaxing drink that is effective in the
treatment of infections and boosting the immune sys- the boiling water over the lemon thyme leaves and al-
low the tea to steep for 5 to 10 minutes.
tem. It makes a good tonic for regular use.
Strain the tea and drink warm. Add honey as desired
for sweetening. Drink two to three cups daily.
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