THYME. 333 



of service in the flatulent colic, and restores a 

 decayed appetite.* 



All the varieties of thyme have an agree- 

 able aromatic smell, and a warm pungent 

 taste : its qualities are said to be diuretic, 

 tonic, and stomachic ; when used internally, 

 it fortifies the brain, rarities vicious humours, 

 and facilitates digestion. It appeases epilep- 

 tic paroxisms, relieves head-aches, and is said 

 to be salutary to old persons of phlegmatic 

 habits. 



In its external use we are told, that it re- 

 lieves the sciatic gout, and the decoction is 

 a good fomentation for weak and nervous 

 muscles. 



It yields a species of camphor in distilla- 

 tion with water. The essential oil of thyme 

 is stomachic, diuretic, and carminative ; it 

 eases the pain caused by decayed teeth, if it 

 be dropped on cotton and applied to the 

 part decayed. This oil is anti-apoplectic, and 

 excites appetite and perspiration. 



The culinary use of thyme is principally 

 for broth and ragouts; also to savour meats 

 and make them more relishing. Dioscorides 

 tells us, that used in food, it helps dimness of 

 sight. 



* Hist. Plant, adscript. Boerh. 



