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| A drop of tea tree oil, applied undiluted, can help prevent cold sores from developing if used as soon as the pricking sensation that heralds the sore starts, or it can help soothe them once they appear. It is also effective on warts. Use one drop each morning directly on the wart. Tea tree cream can be used to soothe insect bites and tea tree diluted in water (20 drops in 1 cup of water) can be used in a spray as an insect repellent. The oil, used undiluted on a comb or added to shampoos (10 drops to 1 tablespoon of shampoo), can be used for head lice and nits in children. |
| Thyme (Thymus Vulgaris) |
| Like many culinary herbs, thyme is a soothing digestive remedy that can stimulate the digestion as it copes with rich foods. The plant (particularly the oil) is also extremely antiseptic, and is a good expectorant, helping both to clear phlegm, and thanks to its antibacterial action, combat chest infections. |
| Description: A low-growing, variable perennial shrub with small pointed gray-green leaves and white to purple flowers in summer. |
| Parts used: Aerial parts, essential oil. |
| Actions: Antibiotic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antimicrobial, antitussive, astringent, carminative, diuretic, expectorant, wound herb; topically rubefacient. |
| Uses: As an antiseptic expectorant, common thyme is useful in cough syrups and combines well with licorice. Make a cough syrup by combining the infusion (1 teaspoon to a cup) with honey (p. 52) or drink thyme tea as a tonic for exhaustion or to regulate the digestion. The fresh leaves can be crushed and applied to minor wounds and warts. |
| Thyme oil is used in aromatherapy for muscular aches, pains, and stiffness or can be added to baths to combat exhaustion. Use 10 drops of oil in 2 teaspoons of almond oil and massage gently into aching limbs. |
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