Thyme, from the mint family, originally comes from the Mediterranean.

Christine Ruggeri, a holistic health expert, says the ancient Egyptians used thyme for healing and embalming, while Greeks used it in baths and temples to inspire courage. In medieval Europe, thyme was placed under pillows to aid sleep and used at funerals to ensure safe passage.

The name “thyme” comes from the Greek word “thymos,” meaning “to perfume.”