Thyme Tea Benefits and Side Effects

Thyme tea is a herbal infusion made from the leaves of this perennial herb. It has been used since ancient times due to Thyme Tea Benefits to treat numerous health issues such as colds and flu-like symptoms, digestive problems, and insomnia.

Recent studies have revealed that thyme tea has more health benefits than previously known. Studies have shown that it can help reduce inflammation, improve digestion, boost immunity, aid in weight loss, lower cholesterol levels and blood sugar levels, and even reduce cancer risk.

Packed with vitamins and minerals, the herb thyme is a nutritional powerhouse. Beyond simply providing an unparalleled aroma, 1 teaspoon of fresh leaves offers up to 160 milligrams of vitamin C. Not to mention manganese, magnesium, zinc potassium calcium and iron! An easy way for anyone looking to boost their health in one delicious step.

1. Thyme Tea for Cough

A cough can be defined as an act of forcefully expelling air from the lungs, usually to clear phlegm or foreign objects from the throat. It can also be a symptom of an underlying health condition such as asthma or bronchitis and is often accompanied by difficulty breathing.

While most people experience a cough at some point in their lifetime, it should not be ignored and could indicate more serious medical issues which require treatment.

Thyme tea has been shown to provide relief for coughing episodes due to its antispasmodic properties, reducing the frequency and severity of attacks. Research suggests that compounds found in thyme can help to break down mucus, allowing it to pass through the respiratory tract easier while providing relief from coughing.

2. Thyme Tea for Inflammation

Inflammation is a natural response from the body when it needs to protect itself from injury or fight off an infection. However, chronic inflammation can often lead to long-term health problems such as arthritis and cardiovascular disease.

Studies have shown one of that Thyme Tea Benefits is it can help reduce inflammation in the body due to its high antioxidant content which helps to lower oxidative stress on cells. It has even been suggested that thyme tea may benefit people suffering from inflammatory autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or multiple sclerosis.

The anti-inflammatory properties of thyme tea can also help reduce joint pain and stiffness associated with these conditions, providing relief for those who suffer from them.

Thymol and carvacrol, two natural compounds found in thyme, are known to combat inflammation resulting from heightened levels of the COX-2 enzyme. This has been seen through their ability to inhibit inflammatory cytokines – signals the body uses when it needs to amplify its immune response. These oils could prove a powerful ally for managing unbridled inflammation within the body.

3. Thyme Tea for Weight Loss

Weight loss can be a difficult process, but it doesn’t have to be tedious. Drinking thyme tea has been linked with helping people lose weight and keep it off. A study done in 2015 revealed that the extracts of thyme may help reduce body fat mass and indirectly contribute to weight management.

It is believed that the polyphenols found in thyme interact with certain hormones which regulate metabolism, leading to increased fat burning within the body. The catechins present in the thyme tea benefits are also thought to inhibit digestive enzymes from breaking down carbohydrates into sugar molecules.

This means that less sugar is absorbed by the body resulting in fewer calories consumed per day aiding weight loss efforts.

Furthermore, drinking this herbal tea can also increase your satiety and help to manage cravings. Drinking a cup of thyme tea shortly before meals can make you feel fuller quicker resulting in eating less or smaller portions at mealtimes.

4. Benefits of Thyme Tea for Lungs

It has also been acknowledged for its potential benefits of thyme tea for our lungs. It is believed that it can help reduce infections and improve respiratory function due to their antimicrobial properties.

A study conducted in 2014 showed that thyme extracts could help reduce symptoms of asthma, bronchitis, flu and other respiratory illnesses by helping to thin mucous secretions which can restrict airways. Not only does this allow more oxygen into the lungs but it can also provide relief from painful coughing spasms.

Furthermore, drinking a cup of thyme tea a day can act as an expectorant or decongestant, helping to clear out phlegm and other irritants from your nose and throat.

5. Thyme Tea for Acne and Skin Health

The antioxidant properties of thyme tea are also beneficial for skin health. Thyme contains high amounts of vitamin C which is known to be an effective treatment for acne, helping to reduce inflammation and clear out pores.

It can also help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals which can lead to premature ageing. The anti-inflammatory compounds in thyme may also help soothe red and inflamed skin, providing relief from rashes and other irritations.

By drinking thyme tea regularly you can ensure that your body is receiving all the essential nutrients it needs to maintain healthy-looking skin.

In 2010, scientists uncovered that thyme essential oil had remarkable science-backed antibacterial properties against P. acnes bacteria, which has been linked to causing acne. Despite this promising discovery though, more research is needed before we can definitively conclude if thyme oil works as an effective remedy for pimples and other skin blemishes.

6. Can Help Manage Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a major risk factor for developing many chronic medical conditions, such as heart disease and stroke. Thankfully, thyme tea may be able to help manage hypertension.

A study in 2016 found that drinking this tea showed significant reductions in both systolic (the top number) and diastolic (the bottom number) blood pressure readings in patients suffering from mild to moderate hypertension. This could prove to be an effective natural treatment for those looking to lower their blood pressure without taking medication.

It’s thought that the compounds present in thyme known as thymol and carvacrol can help relax constricted arteries and improve circulation throughout the body, reducing the amount of work your heart has to do and consequently, lowering your blood pressure.

7. Thyme Tea for Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, degenerative condition in which the immune system attacks and destroys the protective covering of nerve cells. This can lead to a wide range of symptoms including muscle weakness, blurred vision, fatigue and difficulty with coordination and balance.

Recent studies have suggested that thyme tea may be beneficial for people living with MS as it contains compounds that are known to help reduce inflammation in the body. It is also believed that drinking thyme tea can improve cognitive function by increasing oxygen flow to the brain and improving overall alertness.

While further research needs to be conducted before we can definitively conclude if thyme tea is an effective treatment for MS sufferers, it could provide an all-natural way to manage some of the symptoms associated with this condition.

8. May Aid Yeast infection

Yeast infection is a fungal infection caused by Candida albicans. It can cause itching, burning and inflammation in the affected area.

Thyme tea has been used traditionally to treat yeast infections and may be beneficial in fighting off the fungus that causes it. This is because thyme contains both antifungal and antiviral properties which can help keep Candida albicans under control.

In a breakthrough 2021 study, thyme oil emerged as an effective natural remedy against Candida albicans infections. Even for resistant strains which couldn’t be treated with fluconazole. The commonly prescribed medication in very low doses of thyme was still found to possess fungicidal properties.

However, further research is required before its suitability in treating yeast infections can be confirmed among human patients.

9. Thyme Tea for Digestion

Digestion is the process by which food is broken down into smaller molecules so it can be absorbed and used as fuel for the body. Inadequate digestion can cause symptoms such as bloating, gas, constipation and indigestion.

It has been shown to aid in digestion due to its carminative properties which help reduce stomach cramps and spasms while also improving bowel movements. It is thought that the volatile oils found in thyme are responsible for these digestive benefits by stimulating contractions of smooth muscle within the gastrointestinal tract.

In addition to aiding digestion, thyme tea can also help control blood sugar levels due to its antioxidant content. The polyphenols present in thyme tea have been found to reduce glucose levels, making it a beneficial beverage for those with diabetes.

10. May Have Benefits for Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread muscle pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. It is estimated to affect up to 5% of the population worldwide and can have a significant impact on quality of life.

It is thought that drinking thyme tea may help alleviate symptoms of fibromyalgia due to its anti-inflammatory properties which can help reduce pain and discomfort. Studies suggest that thyme tea can also improve sleep quality in those suffering from this condition as it contains compounds like linalool which can promote relaxation.

More research needs to be done before we can definitively conclude if thyme tea is an effective aid for fibromyalgia but it could provide sufferers with a natural way to manage their symptoms.

Thyme Tea Side Effects

Thyme tea is generally considered safe to consume and has a low risk of side effects. However, because it acts as a diuretic, taking too much can cause dehydration which can lead to headaches and dizziness.

It is also important to note that thyme tea should not be given to children under the age of 12 or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. The compounds present in thyme tea can interact with certain medications such as anticoagulants, so it is always best to consult your doctor before consuming it.

Individuals with a sensitivity to plants such as thyme, basil, oregano, sage and lavender may experience potential side effects. Touching the leaves of these herbs can trigger skin sensitivities while consuming them could cause severe gastrointestinal discomfort including nausea, heartburn, diarrhoea or vomiting.

Conclusion

Thyme tea has been used for centuries as a medicinal remedy to treat a variety of ailments. Today, its beneficial properties have been backed by science and it is thought that thyme tea could be an effective natural remedy for yeast infections, digestion issues, diabetes and even fibromyalgia.

Although considered safe to consume in moderation, thyme tea should not be given to certain individuals such as children under the age of 12 or pregnant women. It is also important to note that thyme may interact with certain medications so always consult your doctor before drinking it.

All in all, if you are looking for a natural way to combat a range of health problems, then thyme tea could be the answer!