Among the oldest of the mint family used or essential oil is Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) which is found in the Mediterranean area, as well as being grown in France, Idaho, and Utah, and steam distilled from leaves, stems, and flowers. The most common chemotype (CT) is Thymol, which may have 37-55% thymol as a main constituent. It is mentioned in the Ebers Papyrus, which is among the oldest and most important medical documents of ancient Egypt. It is a 110 page scroll, about 20 meters long, containing 700 or more remedies, and is believed to have been written about 1500 B.C. and possibly copied from earlier documents which may go back as far as 3400 B.C. The Ebers Papyrus was discovered in 1873 by Egyptologist Georg Ebers, and is now held in Germany at the Library of the University of Leipzig. It is also mentioned in Dioscorides' De Materia Medica, about A.D. 78. Pedanius Dioscorides was a close friend of Aristotle and was the earliest known European author to write about systematical botanical subjects, discussing some 500 plants. His work was considered the ultimate authority on plants and medicine for 2000 years. Thyme was also mentioned in Hildegard's medicine. Hildegard of Bingen was a German nun (1098 -1179) of the convent at Rupertsburg, who, under the teaching of the famous Peter Abelard, was among a rare number of nuns allowed to practice surgery. She was widely known and honored for her medical services and was canonized as a saint. Her work was one of the earliest herbals written by anyone, especially a woman. She also composed music and a variety of theological and mystical works. Another variety of Thyme, CT Linalol is high in Linalol. It was used by the ancient Egyptions for embalming, and the Greeks used it to protect against a variety of infectious diseases.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis CT Cineole) , another mint has origins in Tunisia, Morocco, and Spain, and is steam distilled from leaves. This variety has about 38-55% of 1,8 Cineole. The name comes from the Latin words for "dew of the sea". It was used by the Greeks for incense burning as early as 1000 B.C. Rosemary was mentioned in Hildegard's Medicine, and was also part of the historic "Four Thieves Vinegar" or "Marseilles Vinegar, a recipe developed by 15th century perfumers who were also grave robbers, and according to legend, used it to protect themselves during the plague. A study by University of Miami scientists indicated the fragrance of Rosemary helped to increase analytic and mental focus, and alertness while alleviating feelings of anxiousness.
Marjoram (Origanum majorana) , a mint with origins in France and Egypt is steam distilled from leaves. Romans considered it the "herb of happiness" and Greeks called it "joy of the mountains". It was also listed in Dioscorides' De Materia Medica , and Hildegard's Medicine. Marjoram is known to sooth muscles and joints after exercise, and is a general relaxant, also soothing to digestion. Marjoram contains about 25- 35% Terpinene-4-ol , nearly as much as is found in Tea Tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) which has 30-45%, and which has been studied for its therapeutic properties.
Oregano (Origanum compactum), is a well known mint and culinary herb with origins in the USA, France, Germany, Turkey, and is steam distilled from leaves. Also mentioned in Hildegards Medicine, it is often used as a natural supplement. Oregano contains 60 - 75% Carvacrol, (CVC).
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) another mint used by Hildegard of Bingen has sources in India, France, and Utah, and is steam distilled from leaves, stems and flowers. Basil is high in Methylchavicol ,40-80%. It is an excellent flavoring for many recipes, and helps support healthy digestion.
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These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA, and this information is for educational purposes only and not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.
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