Thyme is a low-growing, dense, shrubby plant with a round or square stem that forms adventitious roots and becomes woody at the base. It typically grows in sunny areas on acidic or alkaline soils. It is native to southern Europe, from the western Mediterranean to southern Italy. The genus Thymus includes more than 40 species found throughout Europe, Asia, North America, and the Canary Islands. Thyme is commonly used as a medicinal herb for conditions related to the respiratory system, digestive tract, and also as a culinary spice.