Savory

SaturejamontanaL.

Savory should not be confused with thyme. The first one belongs to the botanical genusSatureja, second -Thymus. The homeland of savory, a branched subshrub up to 50 cm high, is considered to be the Mediterranean. The ancient Greeks sacrificed fragrant grass to the gods and revered it as a symbol of hard work. They added savory as a seasoning to various dishes and drinks, and used it to treat various diseases, including consumption.

The healing properties of savory are due to the high content of thymol and carvacrol, which are part of the essential oil. Essential oil is obtained by steam distillation of the above-ground flowering part of savory.(SaturejaHortensisL.) and mountain savory (SaturejamontanaL.).

The chemical composition of oils from these types of savory is almost identical. The aroma is strong, fresh, spicy-herbal with a balsamic hint. The antimicrobial activity of savory essential oil is much stronger than that of lavender, lavandin, thyme and rosemary oils.

In folk medicine, savory is known as a strong antiseptic; the decoction is drunk for high blood pressure and to improve vision.

Medicinal properties

1. Used for bronchial asthma, pneumonia, emphysema, acute respiratory infections, cough.
2. Improves digestion, prescribed for stomach atony, colic, stomach pain of nervous origin, intestinal cramps, flatulence, diarrhea, intestinal parasites.
3. Stimulates the functioning of the adrenal glands.
4. Normalizes the menstrual cycle.
5. Anesthetizes neuritis, radiculitis.
6. Indicated for dental neuralgia and ear pain.
7. Effective for inflammatory skin diseases, fungal infections, eczema, bruises, wounds.
8. In folk medicine it is known as an antispasmodic, carminative, antiseptic, healing, absorbent, antiputrefactive, astringent, bactericidal agent. Used for diseases of the renal pelvis and bladder.
9. Aphrodisiac.
10. Strengthens the nervous system, stimulates mental activity. Used for asthenia, insomnia, headache.
11. Strengthens hair roots.
12. Softens the effects of insect bites, especially wasps and bees.

Dosage

Prescribed individually by an aromatherapist.

Contraindications. Individual intolerance, pregnancy.

Note. Strong oil, do not use without consulting a doctor.