21.12.2025 20:37
In Gaziantep, the indispensable thyme tea during the winter months stands out as a natural remedy against flu and colds. A pinch of thyme can prepare multiple cups, making it both economical and highly sought after.
With the arrival of winter, interest in winter thyme tea, known as "dağ kekiği" in Eastern Anatolia, has increased. In Gaziantep, citizens who are sick in cold weather or want to protect themselves from illness find a remedy in herbal shops.
IT IS AMONG THE UNAVOIDABLES OF WINTER MONTHS, THE PRICE IS ASTOUNDING
As the winter season brings an increase in flu, colds, and upper respiratory infections, citizens who prefer herbal solutions as an alternative to chemical drugs are showing interest in thyme tea, which is known as a natural remedy and is among the indispensable drinks of winter. The price of thyme is 500 TL per kilogram, while the tea is offered to customers at 20 TL per glass.
"THYME HAS ANTIBIOTIC PROPERTIES"
Stating that the local people show great interest in thyme, Sedat Turan also mentioned that it is beneficial for many diseases in winter, saying, "We consume the winter thyme tea not only in winter but also a lot in summer. We first soak the thyme in hot water and then in cold water. After soaking it in cold water, we put it in a tea strainer. Then we place the strainer on top of the glass and pour hot water over it. Since the people of Gaziantep are more familiar with thyme, it is consumed more here. For example, apart from hibiscus and linden, people tend to prefer thyme more. It is bactericidal, good for colds, strengthens the immune system, increases body resistance, and is good for stomach ailments. Additionally, if there is an infection in the blood, it cleans it. It has quite a bit of antibiotic properties," he said.
"FROM A PINCH OF THYME, YOU CAN GET 5-6 CUPS OF TEA"
Expressing that thyme is offered to customers at an affordable price both as an herb and as tea, Turan said, "From a pinch of thyme, you can get at least 5-6 cups of tea. So, you don't need to use it all at once. We sell 100 grams for 50 TL. The price per kilogram is 500 TL. Those who buy usually take 200 grams or 300 grams at most. You don't need to buy a lot. When consumed by the glass, tea houses here sell it for 10 TL, while cafes sell it for 20-25 TL. It is not an expensive drink at all," he stated.
"WE CONSUME THYME TEA FREQUENTLY TO OVERCOME OUR ILLNESSES"
Harun Alptekin stated that they consume thyme tea frequently to recover from colds and flu more quickly during the winter months, saying, "Especially when we are sick, we frequently consume thyme tea, which we believe helps us. Our goal is to overcome our illnesses more quickly and to strengthen our metabolism by consuming this completely natural thyme tea. Thyme tea has various benefits. I consume it often. I also squeeze lemon into it, thinking that it increases the vitamin content. I recommend everyone to drink thyme tea," he said.