Thyme is a native plant of western Europe. Its name comes from the greek verb for sacrifice, since the ancient Greeks used to burn fresh branches of thyme during their sacred ceremonies where they offered incenses to their gods. Thyme was a symbol of strength and bravery. It is also known that thyme has been used by Sumerians, Egyptians and Romans.

Hippocrates describes thyme as an expectorant, a diuretic and as a warming herb, whereas Dioscourides in his writings refers to its beneficial effect in eliminating asthma and cough. Nowadays it is widely used in the industries of pharmaceuticals, perfumes, cosmetics, beverages, food and in pastry.