Scientific Name
Thymus linearis Benth.
Synonyms
Thymus serpyllum acut.non L.
Family
Lamiaceae
Local Name
Chikal
Habit Habitat
An aromatic, prostrate, carpet forming herb, found in sub-alpine zone.
Taxonomic Features
Leaves simple, entire, elliptic-ovate to ovate-lanceolate, 4-10 mm long and 4-5 mm broad with doted glands. Inflorescence capitate, verticillasters 2-many flowered. Flower zygomorphic, pink purplish or violet. Calyx 2-lipped. Corolla 2-lipped, upper lip 2-lobed, lower 3-lobed. Fruit nutlets type,fragment when ripe, pale brown, ovoid.
Flowering Fruiting
June-October
Harvesting Time
June-November
Medicinal Value
It is used as tea which eases flatulence and soothes digestive system. Infusion of leaves is useful in skin diseases, also used to improve eye sight, suppression of urine and menstruation. The leaves are given as vermifuge. A local medicine called Chikal Anda (Thyme+ fried egg) is used in back pain, particularly for females. It has anti fungal, antibacterial and expectorant properties useful in cold, sore throat, cough and in bronchitis.
Parts Used
Whole plant
Future Prospective
Conservation, Cultivation, Oil Extraction, Herbal Pharmacy, Cosmetic.
Plant Images
Thymus linearis Benth.