Lemon thyme it is an aromatic herb, which is not only possible to find in the wild, but can also be grown in gardens very easily. Lemon thyme can be differentiated from normal thyme, because it has certain characteristics, for example the fact that it has a different color due to its yellow tones, or because it has a slightly more citrus smell.
In addition, it is a perennial plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family, which has small aromatic leaves that bloom during the spring and also during the summer.
Features
Lemon thyme is characterized by being a plant whose maximum height does not exceed 30 cm, it has elongated and oval leaves that have yellow edges, also has a citrus smell and has no flowers, contrary to what happens with normal thyme.
It is easily found in the meadows and It is widely used in the kitchen, so medicinal and also commercial. It can be grown both in gardens and in pots.
Properties
This variety of thyme has several properties. Within these are vitamins, phytonutrients and minerals, which allow it to have excellent properties that help optimize health, while reducing the risk of suffering from different diseases.
Among the main properties of lemon thyme it is possible to mention its incredible characteristics antifungal and antibacterial, which are present because of the thymol it contains and also thanks to other essential oils.
Medical uses
Lemon thyme has excellent medicinal properties, among which the following stand out:
It is an excellent healing
When used externally, lemon thyme helps fight skin problems as minor wounds, while reducing the marks caused by scars.
It is a powerful carminative
Which makes it an ideal plant when you want to combat gases.
He is a great emmenagogue
So it is ideal for relieving symptoms caused by the menstrual cycle (premenstrual syndrome), allowing to reduce not only inflammation, but also belly pain.
Optimizes the circulatory system
This is because it increases blood flow, optimizing circulation and consequently improving cardiovascular health.
It is an extraordinary expectorant
Which makes it an excellent ally within the treatment of bronchitis, coughs and colds in which there is nasal congestion and a large presence of phlegm.
Culinary uses
Lemon thyme It is mainly used as an aromatic herb in kitchens, since its leaves provide a great lemon aroma, which is much stronger before flowering.
In addition, it is the perfect herb when you want to prepare any dish that requires a citrus touch.
In general, this plant is used, among other things, with the purpose of giving a better flavor to fish, meats, stews and even sauces and salads, as well as to marinate and flavor wines. And in certain cases, due to its beautiful leaves, it is also used to decorate dishes.
How to grow it
It is possible to plant it throughout the year, although it is best to do them mid to late winter, so that when it grows, it is exposed to a less harsh and hotter climate.
Needs and cares
Light: requires sunlight.
Temperature: it withstands frost very well.
Ground: It is necessary to use a universal substrate or that is specific for aromatic herbs.
Irrigation: the substrate should remain slightly damp.
Subscriber: Granulated or liquid universal fertilizer should be used, or specific fertilizer for aromatic herbs.
Pruning: it is necessary to dispose of the remains of leaves and flowers when they dry, and to prune it annually to maintain its rounded shape.
Harvesting and drying
The parts of lemon thyme collected are the leaves during the vegetative period and the flowers at the beginning of flowering, are used in cooking or as a healthy remedy; otherwise they can be dried so that they can be used even when fresh thyme with lemon is not possible.
To allow drying, simply put the leaves and flowers to dry in a dry place and away from direct sunlight. Once the leaves and flowers have completely dried, they are placed on a cloth or on a trellis.
The texture of lemon thyme leaves becomes so brittle and we could store the leaves and flowers in closed glass jars, protected from light and labeled.