Fresh Thyme — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 3, 2024
Nutrition facts
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 101 kcal
Nutrients per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
---|---|---|
Carbs | 24 g | 8.73% |
Fiber | 14 g | 50% |
Sugars | 0 g | - |
Glycemic Index | 5 | - |
Protein | 6 g | 12% |
Sodium | 9 mg | 0.39% |
Total Fat | 2 | 2.56% |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
14 g
✅ High Fiber Content
5
🟢 Low Glycemic Index
Did you know?
Health benefits
- Rich in antioxidants, such as thymol, which help protect the body from free radicals and reduce inflammation.
- Supports immune function with its antimicrobial properties, helping to fight off infections.
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and iron, which support overall health and well-being.
Health risks
- Potential for allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those allergic to plants in the Lamiaceae family, causing symptoms like itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
- Digestive discomfort such as bloating or stomach upset when consumed in large quantities, particularly in those sensitive to herbs.
- Potential interactions with medications particularly blood thinners, as thyme may have mild anticoagulant effects.
- Risk of contamination with harmful bacteria or pesticides if not properly washed or sourced from a reputable supplier.
How to choose fresh thyme
When selecting fresh thyme, the sprigs should be lush and fragrant, with a strong, earthy smell. Run your fingers along the stem; the leaves should stay intact, indicating they are fresh.
Avoid thyme that looks dry or crumbly, as these conditions mean it's losing flavor. Fresh thyme should lend a subtle lemon-pine flavor to your cooking.
How to store fresh thyme
Fresh thyme should be stored in the refrigerator. Wrap it in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag to preserve its freshness. Properly stored, fresh thyme can last up to a week.
Extended exposure to air can cause thyme to dry out. It should be kept away from strong-smelling foods to avoid odor absorption. Use a loosely sealed container to help maintain its flavor and aroma.
✅ Extra Tip
How long does it last?
Fresh thyme can last for 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator when stored in a plastic bag with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. For longer storage, thyme can be dried and kept for up to 6 months in an airtight container.
What to do with leftovers?
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
How fresh thyme supports specific health conditions
Fresh thyme is a powerful herb loaded with antioxidants, such as thymol and carvacrol, which support immune health by protecting against infections. Thyme’s anti-inflammatory properties promote heart health by improving circulation and reducing cholesterol levels. It also supports respiratory health by soothing coughs and clearing mucus. Additionally, thyme contains vitamins A and C, which promote skin health and eye health by protecting cells from oxidative stress and improving vision.
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Listonic Team
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Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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