Lemon Thyme, Thymus citriodorus

Lemon thyme is also called citrus thyme. It is easy to recognize lemon thyme by its aroma and flavor, which are both very much like lemon. Even better than the smell are the relaxing benefits and medicinal value of the herb. It is in the Lamiaceae (Mint) Family. Identification: Lemon thyme is an evergreen perennial that grows as a mat on the ground. It grows to a height of 4 inches (10 cm) and spreads to over a foot away. Its appearance and growth habit is close to that of English thyme. The leaves are shiny-green with a pale-yellow border around the margins. Some plants have more lemonyellow leaves or green leaves with pale yellow splotches. The plant produces flowers in mid to late

summer. Flowers may vary from pink to lavender and attract butterflies and bees. Edible Use: Lemon thyme is used widely in cooking to flavor chicken, fish, and vegetable dishes and to make a relaxing tea. Medicinal Use: Immune Function: Lemon Thyme Tea is a relaxing drink that is effective in the treatment of infections and boosting the immune system. It makes a good tonic for regular use. Viral, Bacterial, and Fungal Infections: The anti-microbial properties of lemon thyme make it effective in the fight against most bacterial, fungal, and viral diseases.

Respiratory Problems, Asthma, and Re-

leasing Congestion: Lemon thyme contains many different beneficial compounds for general health and for respiratory health. It is an anti-microbial and a decongestant. It opens the airways to help asthmatics breathe better and to allow phlegm and other mucous to be released from the body. Aromatherapy for Asthma: Asthmatics find relief by placing a small pillow filled with dried lemon thyme under their regular pillow. Sleeping on this pillow releases the oils that open the airways and induce better sleep. Warning: Lemon thyme causes allergic reactions in highly allergic people. Do not give lemon thyme tea during pregnancy or while nursing. Lemon Thyme Tea: You’ll need 1/2 teaspoon of dried lemon thyme or 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon thyme leaves, 1 cup boiling water and honey, optional. Pour the boiling water over the lemon thyme leaves and allow the tea to steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Strain the tea and drink warm. Add honey as desired for sweetening. Drink two to three cups daily.

Lemon Thyme flowers, Kor!An (Андрей Корзун), CC by SA 3.0 Lemon Thyme, Forest & Kim Starr, CC by SA 3.0