You might be familiar with rosemary but not thyme. A sprig of thyme is small twigs with green leaves and is usually three or fewer inches long that are added to recipes to add flavor. Thyme is a herb that belongs to the mint family, just like oregano.
You can either add as a whole with the stems or sprinkle the leaves to your food. So, a sprig of thyme is not a specific amount that you can measure, like a tablespoon, but it’s when you use the entire stem and leaves in your recipe.
Both fresh thyme and dried thyme bring out the magic in your food by adding a flavor that leaves you happy and eager to enjoy your dish.
Is Sprig of Thyme Good For You?
Yes. Not only is thyme used as a flavoring agent but also as medicinal. They are herbs that you can add to your tea or some hot water to treat that irritating cough and even stomach issues. You can even chew though it may not be as yummy as you would expect, but still safe. You can also consume it with food by adding either dried thyme or fresh ones.
A sprig of thyme is an excellent choice that will help boost your immune and respiratory systems and prevent infections from attacking you. You should therefore add it to your shopping list the next time you visit your grocery store.
However, it would be best if you moderate your intake of a sprig of thyme. It can cause digestive issues and even headaches to some people when used in large amounts. It can also slow blood clotting, especially for people with clotting disorders. You should also consult with your doctor if you are scheduled for surgery.
What is the Nutritional Value of a Sprig of Thyme?
As little as it may look like, a sprig of thyme is nutritional and promotes good health by acting as a bacteria fighter. It contains flavonoids such as luteolin and thymonin, which are antioxidants that help to keep you healthy. Both fresh, dried, and even thyme oil are good for you.
One tablespoon serving of fresh sprig of thyme contains:
- 3 calories
- 1 gram of carbohydrates
- 3.6 milligrams of vitamin C
- 3% of vitamin A
- 3% of irons
- 3% of manganese
They also contain small amounts of protein and fiber (less than 1 gram) to help you get back in good health. Instead of running over the counter to grab some painkillers or cold relievers, you should try some home remedies like using some sprig of thyme.
What are the Uses of a Sprig of Thyme?
You may be have limited your use of sprig of thyme and wonder what else you do with the herb. It pairs well in most of your recipes and brings out that aroma and taste for meat, vegetables, soups, and even pasta dishes. You can use it with almost all your cooking like baking, grilling recipes, roasting chicken, and drinks.
A mint smoothie is also heavenly and can boost your moods immediately. You can also make a simple vinegar with a sprig of thyme that you can add to your salads and drizzle in your cooked vegetables.
You can make a healing oil when you mix a sprig of thyme with olive or jojoba oil which you can use to treat your skin and hair issues. Ensure that you leave the mixture in a sunny area for 3-6 weeks.
What are the Health Benefits of a Sprig of Thyme?
A sprig of thyme has natural antimicrobial properties that helps to treat and relieve a sore throat. Infections of the respiratory tract and throat are quite irritating and can make you lose appetite when you think of the pain that comes with swallowing. If you feel like you have a sore throat, you can add a sprig of thyme to your tea or soup, and you will notice the relief.
What are the health benefits of a sprig of thyme? It helps treat sore throat, respiratory infections, getting rid of molds, acting as a mood booster, lowering your blood pressure, and preventing food contamination.
A sprig of thyme is a better supplement to excess salt in your diet. Not only will it act as a flavor, but it can help lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. The herb produces antihypertensive activity, which is suitable for patients with high blood pressure symptoms.
The sprig of thyme is a medicinal herb that acts as a mood booster and leaves you feeling refreshed and happy. It contains a carvacrol component which is also essential for supporting your immune system. They are a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C, keeping you in good health.
Thyme oil is a perfect solution for getting rid of mold in your home. The oil contains fungicidal properties, which you use to disinfect your home and remove molds. In addition, a sprig of thyme helps to keep your oral health. Using mouthwash and toothpaste containing thyme will help keep your teeth healthy and free from decay and infections.
Lastly, you can use the sprig of thyme to prevent food contamination like meat, salads, and baked food. This will prevent your risk of foodborne illnesses. Adding this herb to your diet is, therefore, a perfect choice.
Final Thoughts
- A sprig of thyme is a herb with small twigs with green leaves and is usually three or fewer inches long and belongs to the mint family, just like the oregano.
- A sprig of thyme is good for you. Both fresh and dried thyme act as a flavoring agent in your cooking and can also be used as medicinal.
- The herb is very nutritious. They contain vitamin A, C and a good source of iron and manganese, which is good for your health.
- You can use the sprig of thyme in most of your cooking recipes, in drinks, and as healing oil for your skin and hair conditions.
- A sprig of thyme helps treat sore throat, respiratory infections, getting rid of molds, acting as a mood booster, lowering your blood pressure, and preventing food contamination.
- Adding a sprig of thyme to your diet is a healthy choice.