The Pain-Relieving Qualities of the herb Thyme

Photo byYaya Diamond

Thyme is a common household herb that many people use in cooking, and can be found in most herb cabinets, but it also has some great benefits for relieving pain. I know this because I use it first instead of going for any conventional pain medications on drug store shelves, not to say I don't have them, but they are not my first choice.

I found out about the pain releaving property on the job. One day I had to go to a home to get a signature and the client was bed bound for days with pain so intense she couldn't move. Well in order to do my job I had to get her in a state where she would understand the paperwork, but her pain prohibited her from concentrating.

I asked if they had thyme in the herb cabinet in their kitchen and they said yes so I went to work making some thyme tea. Within an hour she was up and signing the paperwork. Of course after we had finished I did suggest she go to the ER to get checked, and that is exactly what her husband did. I was so happy to help and to bring awareness to such an amazing herb.

What’s Inside Thyme?

Because thyme contains several compounds it can help with pain mangagement:

• Thymol: helps reduce inflammation and acts as a natural antiseptic.
• Carvacrol: Known for its ability to lessen pain sensations.
• Rosmarinic acid: helps fight inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which can cause pain.

How Does Thyme Help?

1. Reduces Inflammation

Many pain issues, like arthritis or injuries, are linked to inflammation. Thyme can help calm this inflammation, reducing overall discomfort which is why its a great daily herb that you can add to your tea regimin.

2. Fights Oxidative Stress

Oxidative stress can lead to chronic pain. The antioxidants in thyme help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, which can aid in pain relief.

3. Relaxes Muscles

Thyme can also help relax tight muscles. If you're experiencing tension or spasms, using thyme might provide some relief. I really think this is what helped my client because she could move due to her muscle ache.

Thyme for Pain Relief

Herbal Tea

Making thyme tea is one of the easiest ways to enjoy its benefits. Simply steep fresh or dried thyme leaves, the herb found in the store in the herb sectio, in hot water for about 10 minutes, strain, and drink.

Essential Oil

I haven't tried this yet, but you better believe I am going to real soon. You can use thyme essential oil by mixing it with a carrier oil and applying it to sore muscles or painful areas.

Add It to Your Meals

I do this one all of the time: Use thyme in your cooking to benefit from it. Use it in soups, stews, or on roasted vegetables to enjoy both its flavor and health perks.

Of course if you're pregnant, nursing, or taking medications, check with a healthcare professional first before adding trying this. I am no doctor, but you just never know.

Whether you enjoy it as tea, use essential oil, or add it to your meals, thyme could be a helpful addition to your natural pain management toolkit which I know about first hand.