Linalool Thyme is one of the many varieties of common thyme. The linalool chemotype is found in medium-altitude mountain areas.
The term "thym" or rather "tym" first appeared in the French language in the 13th century.
As for its etymology, while the word probably comes from Greek, interpretations differ: it could mean "smoke" or "that which burns," referring to the fact that thyme was once used as incense to ward off pests (creatures or evil spirits). For others, the word might refer to courage, a meaning still found today in the language of flowers.
In the Middle Ages, young women embroidered sprigs of Thyme on fabrics that they offered to men going on Crusades to give them courage! It was also a good luck charm and a promise of faithful love.
It is sometimes written that Thyme, according to mythology, was born from the tears of Helen during her abduction. This legend should be questioned, as it might rather refer to a variety of Inula - the Great Elecampane - whose botanical name is "Inula helenium."
Thyme has been used since Antiquity: the Greeks burned it in temples, public squares, and wealthy homes to purify them, as did the Romans, who also used it for its cosmetic and aromatic virtues. Thyme was incorporated into anti-aging balms, cheese preparations, and liqueurs.
Among the Egyptians and Etruscans, thyme was used in the preparation of funerary ointments, probably due to its scent and bactericidal properties.
In the south of France, it wards off the evil eye. In Catalonia, it is also burned during Holy Week to ward off witches.
For St. John's Day, tradition dictates that sprigs of Thyme be nailed in a cross on doors to protect the home, or thrown into fields to protect them from hail.
In Provence, it is called "Farigoule" or even "Farigoulette" for wild thyme. It is one of the most popular herbs in Mediterranean cuisine. It is a component of Herbes de Provence mixtures as well as the bouquet garni.
Its typical taste varies depending on its terroir. It can sometimes have a lemon or verbena aftertaste. Discover how it is harvested on the information sheet for its cousin, Thymol Thyme.
Much appreciated in cooking and as an herbal tea, the essential oil extracted from Thyme is also beneficial. This may be why it is nicknamed "the baroness herb" in Corsica. This small shrub has great anti-infectious powers. Discover them through our reference authors.
