Organic dried thyme herbal tea — Iconic aromatic plant of the Mediterranean scrubland

Common thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is one of the most universal aromatic plants in Mediterranean cooking and herbalism. Its small grey leaves and mauve flowers in dense spikes exhale a powerful, warm, and slightly phenolic aroma that is unmistakable. Used since Greek and Roman antiquity, thyme occupies an essential place in traditional European phytotherapy. Herberry offers you dried thyme leaves and stems, certified organic.

Botanical overview

Thymus vulgaris is a subshrub of the Lamiaceae family, native to the western Mediterranean basin (France, Spain, Italy). It forms low tufts 10 to 40 cm high, with stems that are woody at the base and bear characteristic small, grey-green leaves with rolled edges. The pink to pale mauve, highly melliferous flowers bloom from April to June. The plant grows naturally on scrubland, limestone grasslands, and dry, sunny hillsides.

The leaves contain an essential oil rich in thymol and carvacrol (the two major phenolic compounds responsible for thyme's powerful aroma and characteristic properties), as well as flavonoids (luteolin, apigenin, thymonin), rosmarinic acid, tannins, and saponins.

Aromatic and taste profile

Thyme infusion offers a clear, light amber to golden liquor. Its aroma is powerful, warm, and aromatic, with phenolic notes characteristic of thymol. On the palate, the flavor is strong, slightly bitter, and very aromatic, with a marked persistence and a slight sensation of warmth in the throat. It is a tea with a bold character, often consumed with honey and lemon to soften the overall blend.

How to prepare the infusion

• Quantity: 1 teaspoon of dried thyme (approximately 1 to 1.5 g) per cup
• Water: simmering, approximately 90-95°C
• Infusion: 8 to 10 minutes, covered
• Strain and enjoy warm, with a drizzle of honey and a few drops of lemon if desired
• Frequency: 2 to 3 cups per day

Composition

Precautions for use

• Not recommended for pregnant women in high doses (potential emmenagogue)
• Not recommended for infants and children under 4 years old
• In case of allergy to thymol or Lamiaceae, consult a doctor
• If you are on anticoagulant treatment, seek your doctor's advice
• Do not exceed recommended usage quantities
• Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied and balanced diet

FAQ

Is Herberry's organic thyme certified?

Yes, this dried thyme is certified organic, with no pesticides or synthetic chemical inputs.

What is the difference between common thyme, lemon thyme, and wild thyme?

Common thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is the most powerful variety and the one most used in herbalism and cooking, rich in thymol. Lemon thyme (Thymus citriodorus) has a milder, lemony, less phenolic aroma. Wild thyme (Thymus serpyllum) is a creeping species that is more delicate, with a slightly different aromatic profile. At Herberry, common thyme (T. vulgaris) is the variety offered.

Can Herberry's thyme be used in cooking?

Absolutely. This organic dried thyme is perfectly suited for cooking: bouquet garni, marinades, roast meats, sauces, soups, pizzas. The same leaves are used for both the tea and cooking.

How should I store my bag of thyme?

Away from direct light, heat, and humidity. Dried thyme retains its aromas particularly well, up to 18 months after opening in the resealable bag.

Discover other Herberry teas: See the entire Herberry range