Thyme is a hardy perennial shrub, growing to a height of 30-40 cm.
The leaves have aromatic fragrance which is dried and used in the preparation of soups and sauces. It is used in preparation of herbal tea.
Thyme is packed with minerals and vitamins that are essential for health.
The leaves are one of the richest sources of potassium, iron, calcium, manganese, magnesium, and selenium.
It isalso a rich source of vitamins such as B-complex vitamins, beta carotene, vitamin-A, vitamin-K, vitamin-E, vitamin-C, and folic acid.
Thyme oil is used in treatment of bronchitis. It possesses anti-oxidant and anti-microbial properties.
Seeds are used for propagation.
Thyme can be planted on well drained soil and even grows in soil of low fertility. It seldom requires watering.
On wet soils the aroma will be less.
The leaves and flowers are plucked from the plants or shoots of about 15 cm are cut off from the plants, dried in shade and stored in air tight containers to prevent the loss of flavour.