Thyme contains essential oil in an amount of 1-2%. The main component of essential oil of thyme in 20-54% is thymol or else called camphor thyme, and has uses in perfumery and dentistry. Thymol has antiseptic properties and is the main ingredient in many commercial formulations for the washing of the mouth, such as Listerine. Before the advent of modern antibiotics, thyme’s essential oil was used to anoint bolting. Thymol has also proven effective in combating fungi that often infect toenails. It is also an active ingredient in some herbal preparations without alcohol for disinfecting hands.
Βeverage of thyme may be used to treat coughs and bronchitis. To prepare an infusion put 1 teaspoon dry or 2 teaspoons fresh herb, without stems, in 1 cup of boiling water, cover it for 10 minutes and then strain it.