<p>Thyme is a plant native to Asia, Europe, and North Africa, and is commonly consumed as a spice. There are claims that the Persian word for thyme is wild za'atar. This plant grows as a small shrub. Containing volatile compounds such as carvacrol and thymol, thyme is also widely cultivated in Turkey.<br><br> Türkiye accounts for 75% of the world's thyme exports. İzmir thyme, also known as bilge thyme, is abundantly grown in Turkey. Thyme is not only widely used in the kitchen but also in the food industry, medicine, pharmacy, and cosmetics. There are also wild varieties of thyme. It can be used as sprigs or as powder. It is a popular ingredient in Turkish cuisine.</p>