Kekik (Thymus vulgaris L., Thymus zygis L.) Herba EMA/307113/2016

Today, many healthcare professionals recommend thyme plant and extracts derived from this plant for use against flu. This article contains scientific commentary from the European Medicines Agency, Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products (HMPC), regarding the evaluation of the medicinal use of thyme.

What is Thyme?

Thyme is the common name for the leaves and flowers of Thymus vulgaris L. or Thymus zygis L. plants. The HMPC's evaluation covers thyme plant prepared by drying the leaves and flowers, or thyme preparations obtained as liquid and solid extracts from the leaves and flowers. The plant is placed in a solvent (such as water and ethanol) to obtain liquid extract. The solvent is then partially or completely evaporated to obtain a soft or dry extract. Herbal medicines containing thyme preparations are generally found as herbal tea to be consumed or in liquid or solid forms to be taken orally. The HMPC concluded that due to the long-standing use of thyme in folk medicine, thyme preparations can be used for coughs (chest coughs) associated with the common cold. This means that, despite insufficient evidence being provided through clinical studies, the efficacy of the herbal medicines on the list is considered acceptable and there is evidence that they have been used safely for at least 30 years (including at least 15 years within the EU). Furthermore, the intended use does not require medical supervision. Most thyme preparations should only be used in adults and adolescents over 12 years of age, but may rarely be used in children over 4 years of age. If symptoms persist for longer than one week or worsen during use of the medicine, a doctor or healthcare professional should be consulted. Medicines containing thyme should not be used in patients allergic to other plants of the Lamiaceae (Labiatae) family. Stomach problems may occur. For more information about the risks associated with medicines containing thyme, including appropriate precautions for safe use, please refer to the monograph available on the agency's website. Hülya Dağöttüren Biochemistry Specialist - M.B.A. T.C. Yeditepe University Medical Device and Cosmetics R&D and Production Coordinator