Thyme

Thyme is an herb from the mint family that is one of the most well-known and loved culinary herbs.

But it is much more than a cooking ingredient.

Its range of use is impressive and has over 400 subspecies.

The ancient Egyptians used it in embalming practices, while the ancient Greeks used it as incense.

Thanks to its distinctive flavor, thyme has remained a culinary staple to this day.

But thyme is also quickly gaining a reputation for its medicinal properties, such as its ability to help treat acne and high blood pressure. One study found that an extract was able to significantly reduce heart rate in rats with high blood pressure and was also able to lower their cholesterol.

The next time you're dealing with a cough or sore throat, try drinking some thyme tea.

Another health benefit that thyme offers: It's a good source of copper, fiber, iron and manganese. Thyme and thymol essential oil have many antifungal properties.