Numerous studies have shown that thyme essential oil may be a powerful agent in killing cancer cells in the lungs and breasts.
Thyme essential oil, derived from Thymus vulgaris, contains between 20% and 54% thymol. Thyme belongs to a class of natural compounds known as biocides—substances recognized for their ability to destroy harmful organisms.
Scientists have tested thyme for its antibacterial and cytotoxic effects on three different human cancer cell lines in lab settings. The results showed that thyme has the ability to destroy cancer cells in the lungs, ovaries, and mouth.
Although thyme is native to the Mediterranean, it was the Greeks who gave it its name. To this day, Greek cuisine features many dishes that combine thyme with olive oil.
Thyme essential oil has been shown to kill more than 97% of human lung cancer cells in laboratory studies.
Recent research indicates that when thyme is combined with olive oil, its anti-cancer properties are even stronger. This may help explain why cancer rates in Greece are among the lowest in Europe and the United States.
This essential oil is also widely used in traditional remedies thanks to its powerful antibacterial, antioxidant, and antifungal properties.
A study conducted by the well-known Turkish university Celal Bayar investigated the effects of wild thyme on breast cancer cells. The researchers concluded that wild thyme shows great promise as a basis for developing new therapeutic drugs to treat breast cancer.
How to Use Thyme Essential Oil Effectively
To use thyme essential oil properly, dilute a few drops in a carrier oil. Apply the mixture with your finger to the roof of your mouth or near the affected area. Because this oil is highly potent, dilution is strongly recommended.
To ingest it, simply place 1 or 2 drops on a spoonful of honey.
Fresh thyme is also commonly used in healthy diets, featured in cooking recipes, herbal infusions, and even mixed into salads with vegetables or fruit.
Fun Fact
In Orthodox Christian tradition, thyme is used to promote relaxation, aid in prayer, and ward off bad dreams by placing it in the bedroom.