Thyme Red Essential Oil
Botanical Name: Thymus vulgaris
Plant Part: Herb
Extraction Method: Steam Distilled
Origin: Hungary
Description: The Thyme plant is an evergreen perennial shrub that grows up to 45 cm (18 inches) in height. It has a woody root system, a multi-branched stem, small elliptical greenish gray aromatic leaves and pale purple or white flowers. Thyme is derived from the Greek word ‘thymos’ that means ‘perfume’. White Thyme can also be derived from this species if the Red Thyme is further distilled; nonetheless, White Thyme is more commonly derived from the Thymus Zygis species.
Color: Dark Reddish Brown
Consistency: Light to Medium
Note: Middle
Aroma Strength: Medium to Strong
Blends well with: Thyme essential oil blends particularly well with Bergamot, Grapefruit, Lemon, Lavender, Rosemary and Pine.
Aromatic Scent: Thyme has a fresh, herbaceous, medicinal scent. It has often been described as sharp and warming.
History: Thyme was used in ancient herbal medicine Greeks, Egyptians and the Romans. It was used as an incense in Greek temples and the Egyptians used it in embalming. During the Middle Ages it was given to jousting Knights for courage, and a sprig of thyme was carried into courtrooms to ward off diseases.
Cautions: Avoid during pregnancy, or if a history of high blood pressure exists. Thyme contains a high amount of toxic phenols (carvacrol and thymol) that can irritate mucus membranes, cause skin irritation and skin sensitization.