Thymus linearis - Himalayan Thyme

Himalayan Thyme is a small aromtic shrublet, about 15-30 cm high, with many tiny oblong leaves and delicate little whorls of pink-purple flowers growing in fairly dense clusters, occasionally crowding over the leaves. The sepal tube is bell-shaped and deep purple, out of which purplish-pink tube-like flowers come out. Flowers are about 6 mm or more, weakly 2-lipped. The upper lip is notched, while the lower one is 3-lobed, a feature typical of thyme species. The plant has many medicinal applications. Himalayan Thyme is found on rocky slope in the Himalayas, from Afghanistan to China, at altitudes of 1500-4300 m. Flowering: April-September.
Medical uses: Himalayan Thyme contains essential oils including thymol which is a strong antiseptic that is gentle on the skin. In addition to being antiseptic Himalayan Thyme is known to be an expectorant, antispasmodic and carminative (relieves digestive gas) Himalayan Thyme has been used to treat gastrointestinal problems, respiratory disorders and against hookworm. European herbalist have long used it for relaxing baths or in compresses and gargles. It is reportedly beneficial in treating the headache from a hangover and toothache.