Thyme

Fresh Thyme has small leaves that grow in clusters on very thin stems. The leaves can be green, grey-green, and slightly yellowish green, which smell not only of thyme but also of lemon.

Thyme is indigenous to the Mediterranean region. Ancient Egyptians used thyme for embalming; the ancient Greeks used it in their baths, and burnt it as incense in their temples, believing it was a source of courage. The spread of thyme throughout Europe was thought to be due to the Romans, as they used it to purify their rooms. In the middle ages, women often gave knights and warriors gifts that included thyme leaves, as it was believed to bring courage to the bearer. Thyme was also used s incense, and placed on coffins during funerals as it was supposed to assure safe passage to the next life.

Thyme grew prolifically in the Holy Land. Because of its abundance, it was used as food for the animals, and is said to be one of several plants that would have filled the manger in which the infant Jesus was laid.