Folklore

Appears in
The Secret of Spice: Recipes and ideas to help you live longer, look younger and feel your very best

By Tonia Buxton

Published 2019

  • About

The word thyme is thought to have originated from the Greek word ‘thumos’, which some thought to mean ‘fumigate’, but others have claimed meant ‘bravery’.

Throughout history, thyme has been used as a symbol of bravery and courage and as a rite of passage to the afterlife. It is thought to have been used as a medication for over 5,000 years. From treating internal parasites to cough medicines and digestive aids, thyme has been one of the most consistently used herbal remedies. Today, it is still thought to cure everything from athlete’s foot to haemorrhoids.