Lemon thyme essential oil is extracted through steam distillation from the flowering tops of the Lamiaceae family.

Lemon thyme plants are incredibly easy to grow; they practically take care of themselves. This aromatic herb is a low-growing, woody perennial that thrives in both dry and moderately sunny garden areas. You can harvest its leaves for cooking, as they offer a robust flavor that complements strong ingredients, especially in Italian dishes with garlic, olive oil, and tomatoes.

Additionally, lemon thyme is a natural addition to Mediterranean cuisine, a region native to the plant. While it resembles regular thyme, crushing its leaves reveals a distinct, citrusy aroma. With over 350 thyme species, there’s a wide range of flavors and scents to explore. However, the lemon thyme’s balanced citrus bouquet makes it a standout choice.

Historically, thyme was valued for its medicinal properties, such as acting as a natural antiseptic and preservative. It was also used for meat preservation and early perfumes. Today, thyme is mainly grown as an ornamental plant, though lemon thyme remains a favorite spice in kitchens worldwide.

The thyme plant’s pink, white, or lavender tubular flowers are highly attractive to bees. Its small gray-green leaves remain evergreen, and most thyme varieties can be harvested during winter. Lemon thyme produces light purple flowers, which can be used both for decoration and in cooking, adding a mild herbal and citrus flavor that mirrors its leaves.

Finally, Thymus hyemalis has recently been classified as a separate species, further highlighting the diverse varieties within the thyme family.