Savory Of Crete And Thyme

Antiseptic, antiviral, antibacterial, carminative, diaphoretic, and expectorant herbs

Thyme and Savory (Satureja thymbra) are members of the mint family (Lamiaceae). Thyme has hundreds of different species and at least as many varieties, while Savory has relatively few. Both plants are closely related to oregano, rosemary, and lavender and share the same growing conditions as these herbs. They do best in full sun, a warm climate, and well-drained soil. You don’t want too much organic matter in the soil, or you’ll get a fast-growing and weak plant.

Over the years I have found it hard to grow thyme. Plants are often short lived, so I usually have more savory plants going than thyme. The two plants have a similar taste, while savory is spicier and more robust than thyme. Although they can be used interchangeably, when using savory, it is best to use less. These plants are also great for attracting pollinators and deterring pests. I usually plant them close to roses or vegetables when possible.

Medicinal Qualities

Thyme and savory have been used traditionally for their antiseptic, digestive, and anti-inflammatory properties, and can be used interchangeably. Both are best known for their ability to soothe coughs, relieve fevers, and fight colds and infections. They are also able to stimulate memory, prevent nightmares, melancholy, ease headaches, and muscle tension.

Thanks to their antiseptic, antiviral, antibacterial, carminative, diaphoretic, and expectorant properties they should be taken at the first signs of a cold or illness.

Both plants are a rich source of several essential vitamins such as vitamins A, E, C, K, B-complex, folate, and one of the best sources of calcium, iron, manganese, selenium, and potassium. Savory and thyme are antiseptic, antiviral, antibacterial, carminative, diaphoretic, and have expectorant properties that supports healing throughout the entire body.
Both plants are high in a chemical compound called carvacrol, which is an excellent natural tranquilizer that supports and strengthens the nervous system. They are also a good source of pyridoxine which is known to play an important role in manufacturing GABA levels in the brain, thus helping to regulate sleep patterns, and benefit neurotransmitter function in the brain. GABA is also one of the best natural defenses against stress damage. Savory and thyme are great for the digestive tract, aid in the digestion of rich or fatty foods, and have been found to destroy certain intestinal hookworms and roundworms. These plants have some of the highest antioxidant levels among herbs. They are packed with bioflavonoids such as lutein, zeaxanthin, and naringenin which have all been shown to have powerful effects on eliminating free-radicals and other disease producing substances from the body.

Savory/Thyme Tea and Infused Water

Savory/Thyme tea and herb infused water water are an immune enhancer, builder, and protector. The medicinal properties of these plants stay in the bloodstream longer than other herbs, looking for invaders and hindering their action, thus helping to repel and destroy viruses and bacteria. When you drink herb infused water daily, this can help reduce the viral load and create a state of continual protection.

Savory/Thyme's anti-viral properties make them perfect for helping to combat Epstein Barr, Shingles, Hepatitis, Influenza, Herpes, Cytomegalovirus, HPV, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, Vertigo, Tinnitus, and Multiple Sclerosis.

To make tea:

Place a few sprigs (fresh or dried) in a cup of hot water and allow to steep for 15 min or more.

To make infused water:

Place a handful of fresh thyme/savory sprigs in a pitcher of water, and place it in the refrigerator overnight. Strain in the morning, and add a bit of honey for added healing properties.

For some more great ideas on how to incorporate more of this herb on a daily basis, see our Mediterranean Super-Spice Antioxidant Blend recipe.


information in this recipe comes from Medical Medium's website and books