Herb & supplement monograph

Thyme Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

Medically reviewed by ·Updated July 2026
What is this page for?

First and foremost: how Thyme interacts with medications. The heart of this page is the interaction list — every drug Thyme is known to interact with, and how serious each one is.

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Thyme is, what people use it for and how strong the evidence is, its safety and side effects, and answers to the questions we’re asked most — written and reviewed by the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases, not medical advice, and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

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Thyme Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line

From the HelloPharmacist Editorial Team · Updated July 2026

Based on the available evidence, the overall risk of a clinically significant Thyme drug interaction appears low for most people, since every listed interaction is theoretical and none has been shown to occur in humans. All of the interactions are rated moderate, but each one comes from lab or animal research only, without confirmation in human studies.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The pairing we would watch most closely is thyme with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs, because lab and animal studies suggest thyme leaf extract may reduce platelet activity, and even a small added effect matters with blood thinners. Thyme also shows estrogen-like activity in lab research, so it could in theory work against estrogen therapy. Thyme essential oil may affect an enzyme involved in nerve signaling, which is why drugs that act on that system appear on the list, though none of these effects has been seen in people.

What the rest of the list means

A long list of interacting medications can look worrying, but here it reflects a few theoretical mechanisms applied across many drugs, not proven harm. Because these predicted effects have not been observed in humans, most people taking thyme with these medications are unlikely to notice any meaningful change.

Check your medications against Thyme

Based on HelloPharmacist’s Thyme interaction data and reviewed under our editorial standards.

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Thyme

379 medications have a known interaction with Thyme, graded by severity. Select any drug for the full evidence-based detail.

2,830 drugs
AbciximabReoPro
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, thyme leaf extract might have additive effects with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Abciximab interaction
AbrocitinibCibinqo
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, thyme leaf extract might have additive effects with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Abrocitinib interaction Abrocitinib drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcenocoumarolSintrom
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, thyme leaf extract might have additive effects with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acenocoumarol interaction
AcepromazineAtravet
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acepromazine interaction
Acetaminophen, AspirinGemnisyn
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, thyme leaf extract might have additive effects with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Aspirin interaction
Acetaminophen, Aspirin, CaffeineExcedrin, Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, thyme leaf extract might have additive effects with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, PhenylephrineHycomine Compound
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, PyrilamineMidol Max Strength Menstrual
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan HbrVicks Formula 44M Cough, Cold & Flu Relief
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, PhenylephrineColrex
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, DextromethorphanCoricidin II Extra Strength Cold and Flu
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan HydrobromideCoricidin HBP Maximum Strength Flu
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PhenylpropanolamineMulti Symptom Cold Relief
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Phenylpropanolamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PseudoephedrineChildren's Tylenol Cold Plus Cough, Tylenol Cold Ex Strength
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, SalicylamideRhinogesic GG
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PhenylephrineAlka-Seltzer PLUS, Histex SR, Protid
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine, SalicylamideRhinogesic, Rhinogesic JR
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineAlumadrine, Conex, Sinadrin Max Strength, Sinulin
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, OpiumHista-Derfule
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, Opium interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, PhenyltoloxamineNorel Plus
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, Phenyltoloxamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PseudoephedrineAlka-Seltzer PLUS Liquid Gels, Children's Tylenol Cold, Codimal, Comtrex, Extra Strength Tylenol Allergy Sinus, Lorsin +3 more
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Pseudoephedrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Codeine, DoxylamineMersyndol
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Codeine, Doxylamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Dextromethorphan, Doxylamine, PseudoephedrineVicks NyQuil
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Dextromethorphan, Doxylamine, Pseudoephedrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Dextromethorphan, Phenylpropanolamine, PyrilamineTheracaps
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Dextromethorphan, Phenylpropanolamine, Pyrilamine interaction
Acetaminophen, DiphenhydramineTylenol PM, Tylenol PM Ex Strength
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Diphenhydramine interaction
Acetaminophen, Diphenhydramine, PseudoephedrineChildren's Tylenol Allergy, Cold Control, Contac Night Allergy Relief
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Diphenhydramine, Pseudoephedrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Doxylamine, PseudoephedrineEx Strength Tylenol Sinus Nighttime
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Doxylamine, Pseudoephedrine interaction
Acetaminophen, IbuprofenCombogesic
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, thyme leaf extract might have additive effects with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen interaction
Acetaminophen, Pamabrom, PyrilamineMidol Max Strength PMS, Pamprin, Pamprin ES
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Pamabrom, Pyrilamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Phenylephrine, ChlorpheniramineSuper Cold Tabs
Moderate Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.

Read the full Thyme + Acetaminophen, Phenylephrine, Chlorpheniramine interaction
Read The List Like a Pharmacist

What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean

Severity — How Serious It Can Be

  • Major. Clinically significant; generally best avoided, or used only under direct professional supervision.
  • Moderate. May need monitoring, a dose adjustment, or separating the times you take each one.
  • Minor. Generally not clinically significant, but still worth noting and mentioning to your pharmacist.
  • No known interaction. Checked against our sources with nothing documented — not the same as proven safety.

Likelihood — How Well It’s Documented

  • Likely. Well-controlled human studies have demonstrated the likely existence of this interaction
  • Probable. Interaction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
  • Possible. Interaction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
  • Unlikely. Interaction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.

Where This Data Comes From

  • Interaction records are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database (TRC Healthcare), the same reference used by pharmacists and hospitals.
  • Each drug listed above links to the full report for that exact Thyme combination — clinical detail, likelihood, evidence level, and citations.
  • Content is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists — see our data sources and editorial standards.
The big picture

The kinds of drugs Thyme affects

Every type of medication (drug category) Thyme is known to interact with. Open any category for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

All 4 drug categories Thyme interacts with
Anticholinergic DrugsAnticoagulant/antiplatelet DrugsCholinergic DrugsEstrogens
Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might reduce the effects of anticholinergic drugs.
In vitro evidence suggests that thyme essential oil and specific essential oil constituents like thymohydroquinone and carvacrol can inhibit acetylcholinesterase (AChE). However, this effect has not been observed in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, thyme leaf extract might have additive effects with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
In vitro and animal research suggests that thyme leaf extract has antiplatelet effects. However, this effect has not been observed in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of cholinergic drugs and thyme essential oil might cause additive cholinergic effects.
In vitro evidence suggests that thyme essential oil and specific essential oil constituents like thymohydroquinone and carvacrol can inhibit acetylcholinesterase (AChE). However, this effect has not been observed in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Estrogens

Theoretically, thyme might competitively inhibit the effects of estrogen replacement therapy.
In vitro research shows that thyme has estrogen receptor-binding activity and phytoestrogen content. However, this effect has not been observed in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Monograph

Thyme: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by · Reviewed July 2026 ·
The bottom line

Thyme is a common kitchen herb that has long been used for coughs, sore throats, and digestive complaints. It is generally safe in the amounts found in food, and some cough products that combine thyme with other herbs have modest supporting evidence, but high-quality research on thyme alone is limited. The concentrated essential oil should never be swallowed undiluted.

Thyme
Scientific name
Thymus vulgaris
Family
Lamiaceae
Part used
Leaves, flowering tops, and essential oil
Common forms
Tea, dried herb, liquid extract, capsules, essential oil, syrups, and lozenges
People commonly use it for
  • Cough and respiratory congestion
  • Sore throat
  • Digestive upset
  • Antimicrobial and antiseptic uses
  • Flavoring in cooking

Popular and traditional uses — not proof it works. See “Uses & effectiveness” below for the evidence.

Safety at a glance
OverallUse caution

Generally safe as a food and in tea, but the concentrated essential oil can be toxic if swallowed.

PregnancyLikely Safe

When used in amounts commonly found in foods. Thyme has Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status in the US. There is insufficient reliable informati...

Read the full pregnancy detail
BreastfeedingLikely Safe

When used in amounts commonly found in foods. Thyme has Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status in the US. There is insufficient reliable informati...

Read the full breastfeeding detail

Pregnancy & breastfeeding ratings are from Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center). Safety guidance is general; always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor for your situation.

Jump to a section

Overview

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is a small, fragrant perennial herb in the mint family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and is now grown around the world, often in home gardens. People know it best as a cooking herb, but it has also been used in traditional medicine for hundreds of years.

The leaves and flowering tops can be brewed as a tea, taken as an extract, or made into syrups and lozenges. Thyme also produces an essential oil that is rich in aromatic compounds. This oil is very concentrated and is used in some topical and inhaled products, as well as in cleaning and cosmetic items.

Traditionally, thyme has been used for coughs and other breathing problems, sore throats, upset stomach, and as a natural germ-fighter.

How it works

Thyme contains aromatic compounds called thymol and carvacrol, along with flavonoids and other plant chemicals. Thymol is the best-known active ingredient and is used in some mouthwashes and antiseptics.

In laboratory studies, thymol and carvacrol can damage the outer layer of some bacteria and fungi, which may explain thyme's reputation as a germ-fighter. Thyme compounds may also help relax the muscles in the airways and digestive tract, which could ease coughing and stomach cramping.

It is important to know that most of these effects come from test-tube and animal research. They suggest how thyme might work, but they do not prove it works the same way in the human body.

Effectiveness

Does Thyme work?

Here’s what the research actually shows for each use — graded by Natural Medicines and reviewed by .

Evidence overview · 14 uses evaluated
14 Insufficient evidence
How to read these evidence grades

Natural Medicines’ 7-point scale. We show each rating’s label word-for-word.

1EffectiveStrong, consistent evidence it works.
2Likely EffectiveGood evidence, though not yet conclusive.
3Possibly EffectiveSome evidence suggests a benefit.
4Possibly IneffectiveSome evidence it may not help.
5Likely IneffectiveFairly strong evidence it doesn’t help.
6IneffectiveStrong evidence it doesn’t work.
7Insufficient Reliable Evidence to RateToo little research to say either way.

For Thyme, current evidence isn’t strong enough to rate any specific use. The conditions it has been studied for are listed below.

Also studied for 14 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Aging skin
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if a topical thyme flower and leaf extract reduces wrinkles.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Alopecia areata
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Topical thyme oil has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Bronchitis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral thyme has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Colic
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral thyme for colic, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of thyme for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Common cold
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral thyme for the common cold, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of thyme for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Cough
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral thyme has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Dementia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if aromatherapy with thyme oil is beneficial in patients with dementia.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Developmental coordination disorder (DCD)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral thyme oil has only been evaluated in combination with other oils; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Dysmenorrhea
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if drinking thyme tea is beneficial for the prevention of dysmenorrhea.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Dyspepsia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral thyme for dyspepsia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of thyme for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Halitosis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear whether oral thyme is beneficial for halitosis.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Laryngitis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral and topical thyme for laryngitis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of thyme for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Oral mucositis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral and topical thyme for oral mucositis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of thyme for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Tonsillitis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral and topical thyme for tonsillitis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of thyme for this condition.

Source & disclaimer. Effectiveness ratings and evidence summaries are provided by Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) and shown as licensed. Where Natural Medicines hasn’t rated a use, HelloPharmacist’s pharmacists may add their own reviewed rating and evidence (each such entry is labeled). This is educational information, not medical advice — talk with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing a supplement.

Safety & precautions

Thyme used as a spice in food is considered safe for most people. Thyme tea and short-term use of standard herbal products are also generally well tolerated.

The essential oil is very concentrated and can be toxic if swallowed, especially in children. It should never be taken by mouth unless under professional guidance, and it must be diluted before being applied to the skin. People with allergies to plants in the mint family (such as oregano) may also react to thyme.

For pregnancy, eating thyme in normal food amounts is likely fine, but larger medicinal doses or the essential oil should be avoided unless your doctor approves. For breastfeeding, food amounts are likely fine, but there is not enough safety information on medicinal doses, so caution is best. Talk with your pharmacist or doctor before using thyme supplements if you are pregnant, nursing, or giving it to a child.

Side effects

When used as a food or tea, thyme rarely causes problems. Possible side effects include upset stomach, heartburn, or mild digestive discomfort.

Applied to the skin, thyme or its oil can sometimes cause irritation or an allergic skin reaction. Some people may have allergic reactions if they are sensitive to other mint-family herbs.

Swallowing the concentrated essential oil can cause more serious effects, such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and breathing problems. Seek medical help right away if a large amount of essential oil is swallowed, especially by a child.

Thyme: Reported Adverse Effects

Documented safety reports on Thyme from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database, shown word-for-word from the licensed record.

Orally, thyme is well tolerated when used in food and seems to be well tolerated when used medicinally. Topically, thyme seems to be generally well tolerated.

Most Common Adverse Effects:

Orally: Allergic reactions, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, heartburn, nausea, or vomiting.

Topically: Contact dermatitis and skin irritation.

Reports by condition
Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) Dermatologic

Topically, thyme, thyme oil, or the constituent thymol can cause contact dermatitis and skin irritation. In one study of 100 patients with contact allergies, 5% were attributed to thyme oil as an allergen contained in wound dressings. Toothpastes containing thymol have been associated with cheilitis and glossitis.

  1. Spiewak R, Skorska C, Dutkiewicz J. Occupational airborne contact dermatitis caused by thyme dust. Contact Dermatitis 2001;44:235-9. .
  2. Cuzzolin, L. and Benoni, G. Attitudes and knowledge toward natural products safety in the pharmacy setting: an Italian study. Phytother.Res 2009;23(7):1018-1023.
  3. Le Roy, R., Grosshans, E., and Foussereau, J. [Investigation of contact allergies in 100 cases of ulcus cruris (author's transl)]. Derm.Beruf.Umwelt. 1981;29(6):168-170.
  4. Lorenzi, S., Placucci, F., Vincenzi, C., Bardazzi, F., and Tosti, A. Allergic contact dermatitis due to thymol. Contact Dermatitis 1995;33(6):439-440.
  5. Mackiewicz, B., Skorska, C., Dutkiewicz, J., Michnar, M., Milanowski, J., Prazmo, Z., Krysinska-Traczyk, E., and Cisak, E. Allergic alveolitis due to herb dust exposure. Ann Agric Environ Med 1999;6(2):167-170.
  6. Martinez-Gonzalez, M. C., Goday Bujan, J. J., Martinez, Gomez W., and Fonseca, Capdevila E. Concomitant allergic contact dermatitis due to Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) and Thymus vulgaris (thyme). Contact Dermatitis 2007;56(1):49-50.
  7. Berova, N., Stransky, L., and Krasteva, M. Studies on contact dermatitis in stomatological staff. Dermatol.Monatsschr. 1990;176(1):15-18.
  8. Smeenk, G., Kerckhoffs, H. P., and Schreurs, P. H. Contact allergy to a reaction product in Hirudoid cream: an example of compound allergy. Br.J Dermatol. 1987;116(2):223-231.
Cluster headache Neurologic/CNS

Orally, thyme may case headache or dizziness.

  1. Erol S, Aydin B, Dilli D, Okumus N, Zenciroglu A, Gündüz M. An interesting newborn case of fructose 1-6 diphosphatase deficiency triggered after thyme juice ingestion. Clin Lab. 2014;60(1):151-3.
Diarrhea Gastrointestinal

Orally, thyme and thyme oil may cause heartburn, nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, or diarrhea. In a clinical study, two patients using extracts of thyme herb and ivy leaves experienced temporary stomach ache and mild nausea.

Intravaginally, cream containing thyme and garlic has been associated with reports of nausea and vomiting in one clinical study. It is not clear if these adverse effects were associated with thyme, garlic, or the combination.

  1. Ernst E, Marz R, Sieder C. A controlled multi-centre study of herbal versus synthetic secretolytic drugs for acute bronchitis. Phytomedicine 1997;4:287-93.
  2. Erol S, Aydin B, Dilli D, Okumus N, Zenciroglu A, Gündüz M. An interesting newborn case of fructose 1-6 diphosphatase deficiency triggered after thyme juice ingestion. Clin Lab. 2014;60(1):151-3.
  3. Marzian, O. [Treatment of acute bronchitis in children and adolescents. Non-interventional postmarketing surveillance study confirms the benefit and safety of a syrup made of extracts from thyme and ivy leaves]. MMW.Fortschr.Med 6-28-2007;149(27-28 Suppl
  4. Bahadoran P, Rokni FK, Fahami F. Investigating the therapeutic effect of vaginal cream containing garlic and thyme compared to clotrimazole cream for the treatment of mycotic vaginitis. Iran J Nurs Midwifery Res 2010;15(Suppl 1):343-9.
DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

Adverse-effects data: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

Dosing

There is no official standardized dose for thyme. The right amount depends on the form you are using, such as tea, extract, or a combination cough product.

The safest approach is to follow the directions on the product label and not exceed them. Because products differ a lot in strength, it is a good idea to check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting thyme supplements, especially for children, older adults, or anyone with a health condition.

Do not swallow thyme essential oil, and always dilute it before any use on the skin.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Thyme & Pregnancy

Likely Safe

When used in amounts commonly found in foods. Thyme has Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status in the US. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of thyme when used in medicinal amounts during pregnancy and breast-feeding; avoid using.

  1. Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Title 21. Part 182 -- Substances Generally Recognized As Safe. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?CFRPart=182

Thyme & Breastfeeding

Likely Safe

When used in amounts commonly found in foods. Thyme has Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status in the US. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of thyme when used in medicinal amounts during pregnancy and breast-feeding; avoid using.

  1. Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Title 21. Part 182 -- Substances Generally Recognized As Safe. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?CFRPart=182
DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

© 2026 Therapeutic Research Center

Pregnancy & lactation ratings: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

References & further reading

The 18 references that drive our Thyme monograph and interaction data, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Citations with a link open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

  1. Zava DT, Dollbaum CM, Blen M. Estrogen and progestin bioactivity of foods, herbs, and spices. Proc Soc Exp Biol Med 1998;217:369-78. PubMed
  2. Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Title 21. Part 182 -- Substances Generally Recognized As Safe. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?CFRPart=182
  3. Okazaki K, Kawazoe K, Takaishi Y. Human platelet aggregation inhibitors from thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.). Phytother Res 2002;16:398-9. .
  4. Spiewak R, Skorska C, Dutkiewicz J. Occupational airborne contact dermatitis caused by thyme dust. Contact Dermatitis 2001;44:235-9. . PubMed
  5. Ernst E, Marz R, Sieder C. A controlled multi-centre study of herbal versus synthetic secretolytic drugs for acute bronchitis. Phytomedicine 1997;4:287-93. PubMed
  6. Yamamoto J, Yamada K, Naemura A, et al. Testing various herbs for antithrombotic effect. Nutrition 2005;21(5):580-7. PubMed
  7. Tognolini, M., Barocelli, E., Ballabeni, V., Bruni, R., Bianchi, A., Chiavarini, M., and Impicciatore, M. Comparative screening of plant essential oils: phenylpropanoid moiety as basic core for antiplatelet activity. Life Sci. 2-23-2006;78(13):1419-1432. PubMed
  8. Mackiewicz, B., Skorska, C., Dutkiewicz, J., Michnar, M., Milanowski, J., Prazmo, Z., Krysinska-Traczyk, E., and Cisak, E. Allergic alveolitis due to herb dust exposure. Ann Agric Environ Med 1999;6(2):167-170.
  9. Martinez-Gonzalez, M. C., Goday Bujan, J. J., Martinez, Gomez W., and Fonseca, Capdevila E. Concomitant allergic contact dermatitis due to Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) and Thymus vulgaris (thyme). Contact Dermatitis 2007;56(1):49-50.
  10. Jukic, M., Politeo, O., Maksimovic, M., Milos, M., and Milos, M. In vitro acetylcholinesterase inhibitory properties of thymol, carvacrol and their derivatives thymoquinone and thymohydroquinone. Phytother.Res 2007;21(3):259-261.
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Keep reading

This information is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or combining supplements and medications.

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

Brand directory

Brands that make products with Thyme

185 brands in our database make a supplement containing Thyme.

Product directory

Supplement products with Thyme

828 products in our database contain Thyme. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

Cough and Cold Formula Strawberry Flavor by TerraVita Liquid 1 Fluid Ounce(s) · 30 mL View ingredients & interactions Cough and Cold Formula Vanilla Flavor by TerraVita Liquid 1 Fluid Ounce(s) · 30 mL View ingredients & interactions Cough Syrup by BIOVEA Liquid 118 mL · 4 fl. Oz. View ingredients & interactions Cough Syrup by Village Vitality Liquid 4 Fluid Ounce(s) · 118 mL View ingredients & interactions Cough Syrup by Gaia Herbs Liquid 4 Fluid Ounce(s) · 118 Milliliter(s) View ingredients & interactions Cough Syrup+ Mucus Natural Honey Lemon Flavor by Zarbee's Liquid 8 Fluid Ounce(s) · 236 mL View ingredients & interactions Coughout by Hawaii Pharm Liquid 4 Fluid Ounce(s) · 120 mL View ingredients & interactions Coughout Alcohol Free by Hawaii Pharm Liquid 4 Fluid Ounce(s) · 120 mL View ingredients & interactions David Winston's Lung Relief Cold/Damp by Herbalist & Alchemist Liquid 2 fl. Oz. · 60 mL View ingredients & interactions David Winston's Lung Relief Cold/Damp by Herbalist & Alchemist Liquid 2 Fluid Ounce(s) · 60 mL View ingredients & interactions David Winston's Phytodent by Herbalist & Alchemist Liquid 2 fl. Oz. · 60 mL View ingredients & interactions DDR Prime by doTERRA Liquid 30 mL · 1 fl. Oz. View ingredients & interactions DDR Prime by doTERRA Softgel Capsule 60 Vegetarian Softgel(s) View ingredients & interactions DDR Prime by doTERRA Softgel Capsule 60 Vegetarian Softgel(s) View ingredients & interactions DDR Prime by doTERRA Liquid 15 mL · 0.5 fl. Oz. View ingredients & interactions Deep Lung Cleanse by RespirActin Capsule 60 Veggie Cap(s) View ingredients & interactions Deep Lung Cleanse by RespirActin Capsule 120 Veggie Cap(s) View ingredients & interactions Defense Harvest Cherry by Halls Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 25 Drop(s) View ingredients & interactions Depurative Formula by TerraVita Liquid 1 Fluid Ounce(s) · 30 mL View ingredients & interactions Depurative Formula 450 mg by TerraVita Premium Collection Capsule 100 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Depurative Formula Chocolate Flavor by TerraVita Liquid 1 Fluid Ounce(s) · 30 mL View ingredients & interactions Depurative Formula Mint Flavor by TerraVita Liquid 1 Fluid Ounce(s) · 30 mL View ingredients & interactions Depurative Formula Powder by TerraVita Premium Collection Powder 1 Ounce(s) View ingredients & interactions Depurative Formula Powder by TerraVita Premium Collection Powder 4 Ounce(s) View ingredients & interactions
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Thyme: Common Questions

What is Thyme used for, and does it work?
People use Thyme for a range of reasons, but according to the Natural Medicines database the current clinical evidence is insufficient to confirm it works for the specific conditions it has been studied for. See the graded list on this page, and talk to your pharmacist or doctor before relying on it for any condition.
Does Thyme interact with prescription medications?
Yes. We list 379 medications with a known interaction with Thyme. Use the checker above to see how Thyme interacts with a specific drug.
How are Thyme interactions rated?
Each interaction is graded major, moderate, or minor based on how clinically significant it is and the strength of the evidence behind it. Major interactions are the most serious and are best avoided, or used only under close professional supervision.
Is it safe to take Thyme with my medications?
It depends on the specific medication. Some combinations are fine, while others call for monitoring, timing changes, or should be avoided. Check your exact drug above and confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing anything.
Where does this Thyme interaction information come from?
Our interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database — an evidence-graded reference for vitamins, herbs, and supplements — and is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists, who may add clinical context.
What is Thyme used for?
People most commonly use Thyme for coughs, chest congestion, sore throat, and digestive upset, and as a natural germ-fighter. Evidence is strongest, though still limited, for cough products that combine Thyme with other herbs.
Is Thyme safe to take?
Thyme used in food and as a tea is generally safe for most people. The concentrated essential oil, however, can be toxic if swallowed and should never be taken by mouth unless directed by a professional.
Can I take Thyme while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Using Thyme as a normal cooking spice is likely fine, but larger medicinal doses and the essential oil should be avoided because there is not enough safety information. Check with your doctor first.
Can I drink Thyme tea for a cough or sore throat?
Thyme tea is a traditional home remedy and is generally well tolerated, but it is not a proven cure. If a cough or sore throat lasts more than a week or comes with fever or trouble breathing, see a healthcare provider.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

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Products that contain Thyme

A rotating sample of real supplements in our database that list Thyme — open any to see its full ingredients and every drug interaction we check.

See all 828 products with Thyme →
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