
Thyme is a staple herb for savory dishes like roasted or braised chicken, fish sauces, soups (like clam chowder), and more. It is also a popular ingredient in savory baked goods and is often used to flavor eggs and cheese.
When thyme is not available, there are several herbs that can serve as a substitute. These alternatives include rosemary, basil, and sage.
Flavor Profile
Thyme is a savory herb that is a popular choice for grilled and roasted meats, lamb, beef and poultry. It is also found in countless soups, stews and vegetable dishes. Thyme pairs well with other savory herbs and spices like tarragon, rosemary and oregano. It is commonly used in herbal blends like Herbs de Provence and Italian mixes as well.
In cooking, thyme is commonly used in bean stews and casseroles. It also works well with egg dishes such as omelets and scrambled eggs. It adds a depth of flavor to fish sauces, clam chowder and other seafood soups as well.
When recipes call for thyme, they usually mean fresh thyme leaves. However, dried thyme can be substituted for fresh in many recipes and dishes that are cooked. When using fresh thyme, look for bright green leaves with pliant stems. It should smell fragrant and be free of wilting or browning leaves. If a recipe calls for a “sprig” of thyme, it refers to about five leaves and stems, or a generous handful.
Culinary Uses
Thyme is used extensively in savory cooking, especially Italian, French, and Mediterranean cuisines. You'll find it in pasta sauces, stews, braises, grilled and oven-roasted meats, and other vegetable dishes. In fact, most of our stew recipes would not be the same without thyme!
Dried thyme also works well, but it typically needs to be rehydrated (in water or with a little cooking) before it can display its full range of flavor. You'll typically want to use one-third the amount of dried thyme as fresh when substituting for it.
Thyme pairs well with most roasted or grilled meats, as it complements their flavors. It is also great in savory soups, and can be added to many cheesy dishes as well. Most herbs wither when overcooked, so thyme should be added late in the cooking process to ensure that it retains its flavor and aroma.
Substitutes
When thyme is called for in a recipe, there are plenty of substitutes that work well. It all depends on the type of dish or drink you are making and the flavor profile you want to achieve.
For example, when thyme is used in recipes that require strong flavors such as savory stews and soups, rosemary or oregano can be swapped in for it. Both have a similar earthy flavor but are milder than thyme.
Other good herbs to swap in for thyme include winter savory and sage, both of which have a peppery vibe. Sage also has a hint of lemony flavor and is perfect for meat-based dishes or roasted vegetables. For something with a little more punch, try adding Sumac or sesame seeds to your dishes. They have a sour, citrusy, tangy and slightly sweet flavor. The key is to start small and add a bit at a time until you find the right balance for your dish!
Storage
Thyme is readily available year-round in supermarkets in the produce section and in dried form in the spice aisle. It is also easy to grow in the garden. When selecting fresh thyme, look for bunches with green, pliant stems and many leaves. Avoid those with dry, brown or mouldy leaves.
Thyme can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, but may lose flavour. To extend its lifespan, wrap a few loose sprigs in a damp paper towel and put them in a sealed plastic bag.
Another way to store thyme is to air dry it. To do this, poke a few holes in a paper bag and hang the thyme in a warm, dry location out of direct sunlight. The bag will catch any leaves that fall off during the drying process.
It's also possible to freeze thyme, which can be a handy alternative when fresh herbs are out of season. To do this, simply place a few sprigs in a freezer bag and freeze.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is basil good for kidneys?
The answer is yes. Basil is an excellent food for kidney health. It contains potassium which helps reduce high blood pressure. It also contains vitamin K, which is essential for bone strength. As well as this, it is rich in antioxidants which help protect against heart disease.
Basil is great for digestion too. It contains digestive enzymes that break down protein and carbohydrates. This makes it easier to absorb nutrients from your meals.
Basil is a wonderful addition to any diet. Try sprinkling some over pasta dishes, salads, soups, and sandwiches. Or add little stir-fried vegetables, chicken, fish, meat, and tofu.
It's delicious in pesto sauce and fresh in salad dressings. You'll find many recipes online where you can learn how to cook with basil.
Try making basil oil by adding a few drops of pure olive oil to a jar filled with chopped basil leaves. Let it steep overnight, and then strain out the leaves. Use the oil as a massage oil or rub it onto your skin.
It will leave your skin soft and smooth.
Which plant can heal wounds?
Plants are amazing creatures. They grow, they live, and they die. They make food, clean our air and water, and help keep us healthy. But plants also do more than that...they heal wounds.
Plants release molecules called phytochemicals when they are injured. These chemicals act as antioxidants, which protect cell membranes from damage and promote healing.
Phytochemicals found in plants include flavones (found in citrus fruits), terpenoids (present in mint leaves), and polyphenols (common in berries).
In addition to these protective compounds, plants contain proteins, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, and carbohydrates that support the body's natural processes of healing.
The best way to use plants to heal wounds is to consume them directly. However, there are ways to apply the power of plants to treat wounds without eating them.
First, soak a cotton ball in an extract from the St John's Wort herb. This product contains salicylic acid, which helps reduce inflammation.
Next, place the soaked cotton ball on the wound. Avoid applying the herb directly to open cuts, burns, or puncture wounds. If you feel any burning sensation, remove the herb immediately.
You may also find that placing a few drops of essential oil on the affected area promotes faster healing. Lavender essential oil reduces swelling and speed recovery; rosemary stimulates blood flow and increases circulation; peppermint relieves headaches and muscle aches.
If you want to try your hand at growing some of your medicinal herbs, here are some tips:
- Start with small pots, so you don't end up with too much of one particular type of plant.
- Grow several different types of herbs together. The same goes for flowers and vegetables. Mixing it up will ensure you get all the benefits of each plant.
- Use organic fertilizer if you're growing your herbs indoors. Non-organic fertilizers may be harmful to your health.
- Harvest regularly. You'll enjoy the freshness of homegrown herbs, but leave enough time between harvests to allow the soil to replenish itself.
- Be careful not to overwater your plants. Overly wet soil encourages mold growth, which isn't suitable for your herbs.
- Wash your hands after handling your herbs. You don't want to risk spreading bacteria onto your plants!
How do you make medicinal herbs?
There are many different methods to make herbs into medicinal products. The most common method is to dry the herbs in a warm, dark location before grinding them into a powder or extracting their essential oils. This can be accomplished by hanging herbs upside down in bunches, laying herbs on a drying screen, or using a food dehydrator.
Once dried and ground, herbs can be stored in airtight containers for future use. Other herbs may require special preparation, such as infusing herbs into oil or vinegar, making tinctures with alcohol, or distilling herbs to create essential oils.
Learning the correct techniques for preparing herbs can help ensure that they retain their medicinal properties and potency for optimal health benefits. Using fresh herbs is usually best, but herbs can also be grown in a pot or garden and harvested when they are mature. Herbs can be purchased at health food stores, online retailers, and specialty shops.
No matter where herbs come from, the preparation techniques remain the same; drying herbs in a warm location followed by grinding or extracting the essential oils. You can make your medicinal herbs with the right herbs and preparation techniques.
When making herbal preparations, it is essential to remember that herbs can vary in potency, so always dilute herbs before use or follow the directions on any product label. Additionally, herbs are best used fresh, as many of their beneficial components degrade over time.
Following safety guidelines and paying attention to the potency of herbs can help ensure that you get the most benefit from your herbs. With a bit of practice and preparation, anyone can make therapeutic herbs with medicinal properties. Remember that herbs should never replace any medical advice or treatments prescribed by a doctor. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before using herbs medicinally.
What herb heals all wounds?
The answer to this question varies depending on the type and severity of the wound.
The herb comfrey (also known as knitbone) has long been used for its healing properties, particularly for skin injuries such as cuts and bruises.
Studies suggest that comfrey contains allantoin, which helps speed up healing. Other herbs commonly used for healing wounds include calendula, plantain, and yarrow. These herbs help to reduce inflammation, stop bleeding and speed up the skin's healing process.
In addition to herbs, honey has also been found to have powerful antimicrobial properties that can help prevent wound infection.
Herbs for wound care is an age-old practice that continues to be used today. However, herbs should not replace medical treatment, and always consult your doctor before using herbs for healing. With the right herbs, you can give your body the support it needs to heal naturally.
Is it safe to eat raw garlic?
Raw garlic contains potent compounds that could cause stomach upset. Garlic should always be cooked before eating.
Garlic is one of the oldest known medicinal plants. It has been used since ancient times to treat various ailments.
Today, garlic is still commonly used for treating colds, coughs, and other respiratory infections. In addition, garlic can increase blood circulation, boost immunity, protect against cancer, lower cholesterol levels, prevent heart disease, and reduce stress.
Do not ingest large amounts of raw garlic to avoid possible health problems. It does not harm you if you consume small amounts regularly, however. This is especially true with young children who might accidentally swallow some.
How to make herbal remedies at home?
Making herbal remedies at home is easy. All you need is fresh herbs, water, salt, and sugar. You can use any herb, depending on what you want to create.
For example, choose mint, basil, chamomile, or lemon balm to make a soothing tea. If you want to make a cooling drink, try rosemary, thyme, lavender, or eucalyptus.
All you need to do is put all the ingredients into a pot and boil them until they become soft. Strain out the herbs and serve hot.
Add honey to the boiling mixture to make a tonic drink. Honey is a preservative and will keep your herbal remedy fresh for longer.
You can also combine two or three herbs to make a more potent brew. For instance, you could mix equal parts of garlic and ginger to make a powerful antiseptic. Or you can combine equal amounts of turmeric and ginger to make a potent immune booster.
Soak a clean cloth in warm water and place it over the affected area to make a compress. Leave it for 10 minutes before removing it. Do this every day until the swelling goes down.
Make sure you consult your doctor first before using herbal remedies. Some plants may interact negatively with other medications. Also, don't take large quantities of herbs because they can cause side effects.
What spice is good for inflammation?
Turmeric is one spice that can be beneficial for reducing inflammation. It contains the active ingredient curcumin, which has been studied extensively and shown to have anti-inflammatory effects on the body. Other spices like ginger, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, garlic, and cardamom may also reduce inflammation in the body. Adding these spices to your diet can help reduce inflammation and promote overall health.
Another spice that can be used to reduce inflammation is black pepper. The active ingredient in black pepper, piperine, has been studied and found to have anti-inflammatory properties. It may also help reduce pain associated with inflammation. Additionally, the spice contains antioxidants which are beneficial for overall health.
Adding black pepper to your diet may help reduce inflammation and promote overall health. Be sure to talk with your doctor before adding any spice to your diet, as some spices may interact with your medications or supplements. Eating various healthy foods, including spices with anti-inflammatory benefits, can help keep your body balanced and reduce the risk of chronic inflammation-related illnesses.
In summary, adding spices to your diet can be beneficial for reducing inflammation and promoting overall health. Spices like turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, garlic, cardamom, and black pepper have all been studied for their potential anti-inflammatory effects.
Statistics
- The global herbs market is expected to reach more than $125 billion by the end of 2025.
- Herbs are among the most popular and widely used medicinal remedies. According to a survey conducted by the National Institutes of Health, herbs were used by over 38% of adults in the United States.
External Links
[TAG49]
- Peppermint oil (Mintoil®) in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: A prospective, double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trial
- Curcumin reverses the effects of chronic stress on behavior, the HPA axis, BDNF expression, and phosphorylation of CREB
[TAG52]
- Ashwagandha | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
- Grape Seed | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
[TAG55]
[TAG57]
- Antioxidant capacity of 26 spice extracts and characterization of their phenolic constituents - PubMed
- Cinnamon: A Multifaceted Medicinal Plant - PMC
How To
How To Upcycle Herbs After Making Infusions, Oils, Tinctures, And More?
There are more ways to use herbs than you might realize. This is why it's essential to keep an open mind when learning how to make herbal infusions, oils, tinctures, and more.
You'll find that there are many methods for making these products, and even though they may seem similar, each method has its benefits.
For example, some methods include creating decoctions, boiling water or alcohol with the herb(s), and letting them simmer for a while. These infusions are solid and potent because they contain higher concentrations of active compounds.
Another type of infusion includes macerating the herb(s), which means soaking them in liquid for a few hours or even overnight. Macerations tend to produce milder results because the plant material isn't boiled.
Some cold-infused forms involve steeping herbs in cool liquids such as ice cubes or cold water. Cold infusions are gentler than hot ones, often used to treat minor ailments.
Herbal oil extraction involves heating the herb(s) to release the essential oils. You can either do this yourself or have someone help you out with it.
Finally, there are tinctures made by mixing herbs with alcohol. They're usually taken orally and are very effective for treating coughs, colds, and flu symptoms.
The best way to learn how to create infused products is to experiment with various techniques. Each technique offers a different potency and effectiveness, depending on the herb(s) you choose.
Once you've tried a few different methods, you'll begin to develop your preferences. In time, you'll be able to determine which techniques work well for you and which aren't worth pursuing.
Resources:
![]() |
[TAG60]Welcome to BelovedSaffron.com, where we celebrate all the wonderful flavours of spices and herbs worldwide! We are not just chefs but food.. |
![]() |
[TAG61]Discover the wonders of global cuisine at Belovedsaffron.com! Our mission is to bring you spices, herbs and organic food from all over the world,.. |
![]() |
[TAG62]Farming of Smokable Organic Herbs Plant |How To Make A Herbal Smoking Blend| For more infromation visit our website https://farmingdiscovery.com/ 7 |
![]() |
[TAG63]African herbs have been used for cleansing, perfuming, beautifying and healing for thousands of years. Today, they are an integral part of the global |
![]() |
[TAG64]At Belovedsaffron.com, we combine our passion for spices, herbs and organic eating with a mission to deliver knowledge and flavors from around the.. |
![]() |
[TAG65]Welcome to Belovedsaffron.com, where we embrace everything related to spices, herbs, nutritious food, and organic eating! We are not professional.. |
![]() |
[TAG66]Red clover is a medicinal plant that has been used for thousands of years to treat various ailments. In this ... Read more |
![]() |
[TAG67]Eurycomanone is a major quassinoid compound found in Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia). It is often regarded as being responsible for ... Read more |
![]() |
[TAG68]At Belovedsaffron.com, we combine our passion for spices, herbs and organic eating with a mission to deliver knowledge and flavors from around the.. |
![]() |
[TAG69]We understand that food has the power to connect us all, transcending cultures and distances. At Belovedsaffron.com, we are passionate about spices,.. |
![]() |
[TAG70]Learn herbs from respected professional herbalists offering world-class herbalist training. The NEW Professional Herbalist Course includes courses on over 600 |
![]() |
[TAG71]Genuinely embracing global flavours, BelovedSaffron.com invites food lovers and passionate chefs to explore a world of spices and herbs, organic food, |
![]() |
[TAG72]Traditional Spanish herbs are an excellent addition to roasted pork and ham dishes. They have a fresh, fragrant taste that adds a unique twist to the |
![]() |
[TAG73]Join me in this episode for a deep dive into linden tree medicine. I share my favorite recipe so you can enjoy the medicinal benefits of delicious linden tea. |
![]() |
[TAG74]00:00 - 03:15 Safed Musli 03:15 - 08:06 Emblica Officinalis 08:06 - 11:12 Licorice 11:12 - 14:41 Sarsaparilla 14:41 - 17:30 Fo Ti 17:30 - 19:21 |
![]() |
[TAG75]Welcome to Belovedsaffron.com, where we embrace everything related to spices, herbs, nutritious food, and organic eating! We are not professional.. |
![]() |
[TAG76]12 Easy To Grow Perennial Herbs #stylebyjoe #perennialherbs #easytogrowherbs #lavender #sorrel #rosemary #oregano #mint #baylaurel #chives #frenchtarragon |
![]() |
[TAG77]Discover how to dry herbs for cooking - simple and cheap! Watch this informative video and learn 3 efficient methods to dry herbs for cooking perfection. |
![]() |
[TAG78]Welcome to Belovedsaffron.com, where we embrace everything related to spices, herbs, nutritious food, and organic eating! We are not professional.. |
![]() |
[TAG79]At Belovedsaffron.com, we are passionate about spices, herbs, recipes and organic eating. It is our mission to bring awareness of flavors from around |
![]() |
[TAG80]Welcome to Belovedsaffron.com, where we embrace everything related to spices, herbs, nutritious food, and organic eating! We are not professional.. |
![]() |
[TAG81]Find out more about herbs and how to use them |
![]() |
[TAG82]How To Detox/Cleanse (Dr. Sebi) In this video, I share information on how to detox (how to cleanse) and make herbal teas using Dr Sebi's |
![]() |
[TAG83]At Belovedsaffron.com, we're passionate about flavours, cultures and cooking wisdom from around the world. We seek to bring you closer to sustainable |
![]() |
[TAG84]Elevating the everyday is our mission. At Belovedsaffron.com, we think the world deserves more than conventional cuisines — and more than take-out.. |
![]() |
[TAG85]Today’s episode is all about holistic health. Macy Schuchart is an herbalist and the founder of Ancient Bliss supplement company, specializing in herbal |
![]() |
[TAG86]At Belovedsaffron.com, we believe that the key to good food and healthy eating is the proper use of spices, herbs, and other fresh ingredients. We.. |
![]() |
[TAG87]Genuinely embracing global flavours, BelovedSaffron.com invites food lovers and passionate chefs to explore a world of spices and herbs, organic food, |
![]() |
[TAG88]Elevating the everyday is our mission. At Belovedsaffron.com, we think the world deserves more than conventional cuisines — and more than take-out.. |
![]() |
[TAG89]At Belovedsaffron.com, we combine our passion for spices, herbs and organic eating with a mission to deliver knowledge and flavors from around the.. |
![]() |
[TAG90]Welcome to Belovedsaffron.com, where we are passionate about spices, herbs, recipes and organic eating! Here you will find a wide range of spices,.. |
![]() |
[TAG91]☘️Do you want to start to incorporate Chinese herbs in your cooking and diet? In this video, I, who is a Chinese Medicine Practitioner and Pharmacist, share |
![]() |
[TAG92]Like life, tea is what you make of it and The Cup of Life helps individuals enjoy tea in more than one way. Join me on my tea adventures through my blog! |
![]() |
[TAG93]Harvest jackfruit and bring it to the market to sell with your daughter. Processing and preserving precious medicinal herbs. Hope you guys enjoy the video. |
![]() |
[TAG94]In this video we will discuss a few herbs you can usr for brain health. These herbs can help woth Cognitive issues, depression, dementia, Alzheimer's, |
![]() |
[TAG95]Stop buying over the counter Neosporin and start making your own safe, natural and soothing antibiotic ointment at home using ingredients you can source from |
![]() |
[TAG96]Lack of sleep can leave you with no energy, irritated, lethargic, and moody. Whether you struggle with falling asleep, waking ... Read more |
![]() |
[TAG97]I'll show you a compact, easy-to-travel-with natural first aid kit; a wonderful way to be prepared for everyday health concerns when you’re away from home! |
![]() |
[TAG98]Are you considering weight loss but would like to take a natural approach? Deciding to lose weight can seem daunting ... Read more |
![]() |
[TAG99]Arrowleaf balsamroot (Balsamorhiza sagittata) is a stunning flower, a nutritious food, and a potent herbal medicine that grows all over western North America. |
![]() |
[TAG100]Join me and Chanchal Cabrera—an herbalist with 35 years of clinical practice in holistic oncology—as we talk about empowering yourself when faced with cancer |
![]() |
[TAG101]Join me and Chinese medicine practitioner Toby Daly to get to know the benefits of red sage, otherwise known as dan shen (Salvia miltiorrhiza) |
![]() |
[TAG102]Cistanche is a medicinal herb traditionally used to enhance immunity, boost fertility and sexual wellness, and support brain function and ... Read more |
![]() |
[TAG103]A tea assessment platform that rates teas based on objective quality markers and a sensory evaluation resulting in a list of the best teas produced each year. |