Thyme
Family Labiatae (orr Lamiaceae)
Thymus vulgaris, thyme (T. vulgaris 1), is a low shrub, 15-20 cm tall, with minute leaves with recurved margins, hairy beneath, and small pink flowers.
Distribution and use
Thyme is a native of the Mediterranean region. The fresh and dried shoots are used as seasoning in stuffing and other foodstuffs. Thyme also yields an essential oil, which is used in sweets, chewing-gum, perfumes and soaps. Thymol, a derivate of the oil, is antiseptic and is used in toothpaste and pharmacy. The ancient Egyptians used the oil to embalm their dead.