Work Your Herbal Magic With Thyme!
Soul & Spirit’s kitchen witch Silja shows you how to tap into the magical properties of your favourite herbs, looking at the powers of thyme
Thyme has many uses in household and well-being, and is one of the most versatile herbs too. Thymol, a chemical found in thyme, is an extremely effective antiseptic and is common in acne medicine, mouthwash and hand sanitiser. Thyme is also useful when trying to remove poison from the body. Of course, this amazing herb also has many magical uses, too. Use it in spells that promote success in all things, or for protection.
The ancient Egyptians used thyme as part of their embalming concoction to ease the passage to the afterlife, while in Roman times, thyme was eaten before a meal by political figures and generals to prevent enemies poisoning them with food. Tradition says that sprigs of thyme were also exchanged by soldiers and visitors to a home to show respect and positive intentions, and then burned to invoke spirits of courage and success in battle. Similar customs have been recorded until the late Middle Ages, where thyme was woven into the posies carried to ward off the plague.
You can use this herb to make many delicious recipes, including thyme and mushroom soup! Simply make a mushroom soup to the recipe and add a handful or two of thyme leaves (depending on how strongly you want it flavoured). Enjoy with friends to strengthen friendships, or before difficult business negotiations to give you courage!
Useful spells and magic with thyme
1 To help in a legal battle or gain courage in a difficult situation, such as talking to your neighbour about noise, bringing up a complaint at work or “laying down the law” with someone, take a bath with thyme-infused oil, or rub the oil on your body.
2 To protect your children when they are at school or elderly family members, place a sprig of thyme in their pockets while chanting three times: “The protection of time I seek, for this person sweet and meek.”
3 If you have had a tragedy in the family, or just feel down and need uplifting, burn some dried thyme in a fireproof dish and let the smoke waft around you while you visualise the smoke dispelling any stress and negativity. Walk around each room in your home, working clockwise, making sure the smoke gets into the corners where negative energy and malicious spirits often hide.
4 Place a spring of thyme under your pillow for restful sleep, to keep away nightmares and bring luck and courage for the following day.
FACT FILE
Thyme has become famous through the Scarborough Fair song, and is rightfully one of the most popular herbs in many kitchen gardens. It is hardy and easy to grow – some people even grow it between paving stones rather than in a pot.
Did you know?
The Victorians believed thyme growing wild was a sign of fairies nearby. If you want to attract the little folk, plant thyme in a circle and place something shiny in the middle, such as a selection of brightly coloured marbles.
