Evidence supporting the use of: Thyme
For the body system: Bronchials

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) has a long history of use in traditional medicine for supporting respiratory health, particularly for coughs and bronchial conditions. Scientifically, thyme contains active compounds such as thymol and carvacrol, which have demonstrated antimicrobial, antispasmodic, and anti-inflammatory properties in laboratory and animal studies. Clinical evidence is moderate: a few randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews indicate that thyme extracts, especially in combination with ivy (Hedera helix), may help alleviate symptoms of acute bronchitis, such as cough frequency and severity. For instance, a 2006 double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that a syrup containing thyme and ivy was significantly more effective than placebo in reducing coughing fits in patients with acute bronchitis. However, most studies use combination products, so the specific contribution of thyme is sometimes unclear. While the evidence is not robust enough for unequivocal endorsement, it does suggest a plausible benefit for mild bronchial symptoms, and thyme is recognized in several European pharmacopeias as a traditional herbal remedy for bronchial issues. Overall, thyme’s use for supporting the bronchial system is justified by both traditional use and a moderate level of scientific validation.

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