Thyme is an herb. The flowers, leaves, and oil are used as medicine. Thyme is sometimes used in combination with other herbs.
Thyme is used for swelling (inflammation) of the main airways in the lung (bronchitis), cough, patchy hair loss (alopecia areata), stomach problems, and many other conditions. But there is no good scientific evidence to support its use for any condition.
Thyme is used as a flavoring agent. Thyme oil is used in perfumes. It is also used in soaps, cosmetics, and toothpaste.
Thyme contains chemicals that might help bacterial and fungal infections and minor irritations. It also might relieve smooth muscle spasms, such as coughing, and have antioxidant effects
