Thyme

Thymol, vitamin C, flavor; traditionally used in cough remedies.

Category: Herbs & Spices
Plate rating: 87/100
Glycemic index: ≈0 (no carbs)
Pesticide residue: Lower

What thyme offers

Thymol
Vitamin C
Flavor; traditionally used in cough remedies

When to eat it

With savory dishes or as tea.

Tip

Woody stems are easy to strip — pull leaves against the grain

Blood sugar

Contains little or no carbohydrate, so it has almost no direct effect on blood sugar. GI values are approximate and vary with ripeness, variety and preparation. If you manage diabetes, ask your care team how this food fits your plan.

Pesticide residue & peeling

Relative residue level: Lower — a rough guide, not a lab measurement. Rinse produce under running water before eating.

More herbs & spices

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GingerHelps ease nausea, aids digestion, warming flavorHerbs & Spices

OreganoAntioxidants (carvacrol, thymol), vitamin KHerbs & Spices

BasilVitamin K, antioxidants, flavorHerbs & Spices

RosemaryAntioxidants (carnosic acid), flavorHerbs & Spices

Sources

Nutrient data: USDA FoodData Central (search “Thyme”)

Last reviewed October 2026. How we rate foods.

General information only, not medical advice. If you take medicine or manage a health condition, check with your doctor, pharmacist or a registered dietitian before changing your diet. Read our medical disclaimer.