Thyme is a herb that whispers stories of ancient civilizations, Mediterranean hillsides, and timeless culinary traditions. It is a foundational element of global cuisine, cherished for its warm, earthy, and minty aroma. At Botanika Bharat LLP, we are proud to present a new chapter in this story: Indian Thyme. Cultivated in the unique terroir of the temperate Himalayan highlands, our thyme offers a distinct and potent aromatic profile. As an emerging thyme exporter from India, we are dedicated to bringing this high-quality herb to the global market. This guide is designed to provide our partners with a comprehensive understanding of our product, our meticulous processes, and our commitment to quality, enabling you to source with confidence and build a successful partnership with us.
The journey of thyme (*Thymus vulgaris*) begins in the ancient world. The ancient Egyptians used it as a key ingredient in their embalming rituals, valuing its preservative qualities. The Greeks associated thyme with courage and elegance; they burned it as incense in their temples and used it in their baths. Roman soldiers exchanged sprigs of thyme as a sign of respect, believing it would impart bravery. They are also credited with spreading the herb throughout Europe, using it to purify rooms and to give an aromatic flavor to cheese and liqueurs.
Over the centuries, thyme became an indispensable culinary herb, a cornerstone of European, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Its ability to pair with a vast array of ingredients cemented its status as a kitchen staple. While traditionally a Mediterranean herb, its cultivation has now expanded to new regions that can replicate its preferred climate. When you buy thyme from India, you are sourcing a classic herb that has found a vibrant new home, developing unique characteristics from its new environment.
The exceptional quality of our thyme is a direct result of its unique cultivation environment. While India is known for its tropical spices, the vast expanse of the Western Himalayas offers cool, temperate climates and well-drained soils that are perfectly suited for growing Mediterranean herbs like thyme. Our sourcing is focused on high-altitude farms in states like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
This specific terroir—with its crisp mountain air, ample sunlight, and mineral-rich soil—encourages the plants to produce a high concentration of essential oils, particularly **thymol**, the compound responsible for thyme's characteristic aroma and antiseptic properties. This results in a product that is not only intensely flavorful but also highly potent, making it ideal for culinary, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic applications. As a dedicated Indian thyme supplier, we harness this regional advantage to deliver a product of superior aromatic quality.
Our mission as a reliable thyme exporter is to deliver a product that meets the highest international standards. We manage the entire supply chain with a focus on transparency and quality control. Every batch we export is fully traceable and compliant with global food safety norms. Our commitment is backed by:
The quality of a dried herb like thyme is determined by how well its delicate leaves and essential oils are preserved after harvesting. Our post-harvest protocol is designed for maximum retention of flavor, color, and aroma. The thyme is harvested just before its flowers bloom, as this is when the concentration of essential oils in the leaves is at its peak.
Crucially, the herb is never sun-dried, as this would bleach the leaves and cause the volatile oils to evaporate. Instead, it undergoes a process of slow, low-temperature drying, either by air-drying in shaded, well-ventilated areas or by using mechanical driers. This gentle process reduces the moisture content to a stable level (below 12%) while locking in the vibrant green color and the potent aromatic compounds. After drying, the leaves are carefully separated from the stems and sieved to ensure a clean, uniform product.
To protect the integrity of our dried thyme during its international journey, we use robust, multi-layered packaging designed to be a barrier against light, moisture, and oxygen. Our standard bulk packaging includes 20 kg or 25 kg multi-wall paper bags with a food-grade inner poly-liner, or sturdy poly-lined cartons. This ensures the herb arrives at its destination as fresh and aromatic as the day it was packed.
Our experienced logistics team manages the entire shipping process, ensuring timely and secure delivery to any major port worldwide. Whether you require a full container load (a 20ft container holds 6-8 MT of thyme) or a smaller LCL shipment, we provide a seamless, end-to-end logistics solution.
Importing thyme from India is a simple and efficient process with Botanika Bharat LLP as your partner. We provide complete support at every stage.
Partner with Botanika Bharat LLP to explore the unique aromatic potential of Indian thyme. Contact us today for a detailed quote and discover the quality that this timeless herb offers from its new Himalayan home.
As a specialized thyme exporter from India, we primarily supply Dried Thyme Leaves and Thyme Powder (Ground Thyme).
Our thyme is graded based on volatile oil content (specifically thymol), purity (low stem content), color (good green), and cut size. We offer Premium Grade (High VO, >99% purity) and FAQ Grade (Fair Average Quality) for different applications.
Our premium grade Indian thyme is selected for its high thymol content, which is the primary component responsible for its aroma and antiseptic properties. The exact percentage is specified in the Certificate of Analysis (CoA) for each batch.
FAQ (Fair Average Quality) is a standard trade grade that represents a good, reliable quality product from the recent harvest. It meets all standard purity and safety norms and offers excellent value for a wide range of applications.
When stored correctly in our recommended airtight packaging in a cool, dark place, our dried thyme leaves will retain their potent flavor and aroma for up to 24 months.
After drying, our thyme goes through a mechanical sieving and cleaning process that is specifically designed to separate the delicate leaves from the woody stems, ensuring a high-purity final product.
While from the same plant species (*Thymus vulgaris*), the unique high-altitude, temperate terroir of the Indian Himalayas can produce thyme with a particularly sharp, potent, and complex aromatic profile compared to the classic warm, earthy notes of Mediterranean thyme.
Yes, all the thyme we source is from traditional, non-genetically modified plant varieties.
The total ash content for our premium grade thyme is typically below 12%, and acid-insoluble ash is below 2%, indicating high levels of purity and proper cleaning. Specific values are provided in the CoA.
Yes, we can source and supply certified organic dried thyme that complies with NPOP (India), USDA (USA), and EU organic standards, complete with all necessary transaction certificates.
Yes. Besides the standard whole leaf form, we can provide thyme in various cut sizes (e.g., fine cut for tea bags, coarse cut for blends) based on your manufacturing requirements.
Yes, our thyme powder is ground from high-quality dried thyme leaves to ensure a full-flavored and aromatic product. We do not use spent leaves or byproducts.
Our standard offering is non-treated and non-irradiated. However, for markets that require it for microbial control, we can arrange for ETO (Ethylene Oxide) treatment or steam sterilization.
We source our thyme from the temperate, high-altitude regions of the Western Himalayas, particularly in states like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. This unique terroir contributes to a potent aromatic profile.
Our thyme is harvested at peak maturity and then carefully air-dried or machine-dried at low, controlled temperatures. This method preserves the delicate green color and, most importantly, the high content of volatile oils like thymol, unlike harsh sun-drying.
Yes, we partner with facilities that adhere to strict food safety standards and hold certifications such as ISO 22000, HACCP, and/or GMP to ensure product safety and quality.
The main harvest season for thyme in the Himalayan region is typically during the spring and summer months, from April to July, when the plant's essential oil concentration is at its highest.
Thyme is harvested by hand, just before the plant begins to flower. This ensures the leaves have the maximum concentration of aromatic oils and the best flavor profile.
After harvesting, the thyme sprigs are manually inspected and gently shaken to remove soil and debris. Any further cleaning is done through a multi-stage sieving process after drying to ensure a pure product.
Each batch of thyme is assigned a lot number at the point of procurement, which is linked to the specific farmer group and harvest date. This lot number is tracked through drying, processing, and final packaging, ensuring end-to-end traceability.
Our standard MOQ for dried thyme leaves is 1 Metric Ton (MT). This allows for efficient LCL (Less than Container Load) shipping. For full container loads, a 20ft container holds approximately 6-8 MT.
Herb prices fluctuate based on season and availability. To get the latest price as of Tuesday, October 7, 2025, please send an inquiry with your required grade, quantity, and destination port. We will provide a competitive quote.
Our standard terms are a 30-50% advance payment via Telegraphic Transfer (TT) with the balance payable against scanned copies of the shipping documents. We also accept irrevocable Letters of Credit (LC) for larger orders.
As an agricultural product with a specific growing season, thyme prices can fluctuate based on harvest success, annual yield, and market demand. Our quotes reflect these real-time conditions.
Yes, we offer preferential pricing and can establish fixed-price annual contracts for clients with consistent, high-volume requirements. This helps in securing supply and managing price volatility.
Our primary transaction currency is US Dollars (USD). However, we are open to discussing transactions in other major currencies like Euros (EUR) or Pound Sterling (GBP).
1. Send us your detailed inquiry. 2. We provide a quote and send a sample for your approval. 3. Upon approval, we issue a Proforma Invoice. 4. You confirm the order by making the advance payment. 5. We process your order and manage the shipment to your port.
The typical lead time from order confirmation to shipment is 15-25 days. This allows for sourcing, final quality checks, packaging, and arranging all necessary documentation and logistics.
Minor changes to packaging or markings may be possible if requested early. However, significant changes to quantity or grade are difficult once sourcing and processing have begun and may require re-quoting.
To protect it from light, air, and moisture, we pack dried thyme in multi-wall paper bags with an inner food-grade poly-liner or in poly-lined cartons, typically in 20 kg or 25 kg units.
Yes, we offer private labeling services. We can pack thyme leaves or powder in retail-ready packaging like pouches, shakers, or jars that feature your brand's artwork and logo.
We can facilitate various retail packaging options, including stand-up pouches with zippers, small cartons, and glass or plastic spice jars, based on your brand's requirements.
You would need to provide final, print-ready artwork files. This should include your brand logo, ingredient list, net weight, nutritional facts, and any other information mandated by your country’s food labeling laws.
Yes, there is typically an additional cost for private labeling which covers the custom packaging materials, printing, and specialized labor. This cost varies depending on the complexity and volume of the order.
Standard markings on bulk bags include: Product Name (Dried Thyme Leaves), Net Weight, Gross Weight, Country of Origin, Batch Number, and Harvest Date.
While not standard for thyme leaves (as it can crush them), vacuum packing is an excellent option for thyme powder to extend its shelf life and preserve its aroma. We can provide this upon request.
We are flexible with shipping terms and most commonly operate on FOB (Free On Board), CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight), and CFR (Cost and Freight) basis.
A 40ft container, being larger, can hold approximately 12-15 Metric Tons of dried thyme, offering better per-ton shipping costs for high-volume orders.
For cargo originating from North India, we typically ship from the port of Nhava Sheva (in Mumbai) or Mundra, which are two of India's largest and most efficient ports.
Approximate sea transit times are: 25-30 days to Europe, 30-40 days to the East Coast of the USA, and 15-20 days to major ports in the Middle East.
Yes, for all shipments made on a CIF basis, we procure comprehensive marine insurance ('All Risks') that covers the value of your goods from our warehouse to your destination port.
In addition to moisture-barrier packaging, we place high-capacity desiccants (moisture-absorbing packs) inside the container to absorb ambient humidity during sea transit.
Yes, upon request, we can palletize the cargo using ISPM 15 compliant, heat-treated pallets. The pallets are then stretch-wrapped for stability, making them easy to unload with a forklift.
Yes. After the vessel sails, we will provide you with the Bill of Lading number and the shipping line's details, which you can use to track your container's journey online.
The applicable Harmonized System (HS) Code for thyme is generally 091099, which covers 'Other Spices'. We ensure the precise sub-classification is used on all documentation for smooth customs clearance.
Every shipment includes a Phytosanitary Certificate, Certificate of Origin, a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) detailing the product specifications (like volatile oil content), a commercial invoice, and a packing list.
The CoA is a lab report for your specific batch. For thyme, it includes key parameters like Volatile Oil content, moisture, total ash, and microbiological limits (Total Plate Count, E. coli, etc.).
This certificate is an international requirement from the plant protection authority of the exporting country, confirming that the dried herb has been inspected and is free from quarantine pests and plant diseases.
Yes, we are experienced in exporting to these regions and ensure our thyme adheres to the strict limits on pesticide residues (MRLs) and heavy metals set by the EU and FDA.
Yes, upon request, we can have the thyme tested at a NABL-accredited laboratory for a full spectrum of pesticide residues to ensure it meets the MRLs of your specific country.
While the Spices Board of India primarily focuses on a scheduled list of spices, their quality standards and guidelines serve as a benchmark for all related agricultural exports. We are a registered exporter and follow best practices in line with their standards.
Thyme is a foundational herb in many cuisines. It is essential in stocks, soups, stews, sauces, and marinades. It pairs excellently with roasted meats, poultry, vegetables, and is a key ingredient in 'bouquet garni' and Herbes de Provence.
Thyme is rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C. Its primary active component, thymol, gives it powerful antiseptic, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. It is traditionally used in remedies for coughs and respiratory issues.
Thyme has a gentle, earthy, and slightly minty flavor. Oregano is more pungent and peppery. Rosemary has a strong, pine-like, and woody aroma. While all are Mediterranean, they have distinct flavor profiles and uses.
Yes, absolutely. Due to the high concentration of thymol and other volatile oils developed in the Himalayan terroir, our premium grade thyme is an excellent raw material for the essential oil industry.
Yes, thyme is very popular in herbal tea blends, prized for both its pleasant aroma and its traditional benefits for throat and respiratory health. We can provide a fine cut suitable for tea bags.
Absolutely. We specialize in consolidated shipments. You can combine your thyme order with other herbs like rosemary, oregano, or a range of Indian spices in a single container.
Yes, we can provide samples of our dried thyme for your quality evaluation. The samples are free; we only ask that the client covers the international courier fees.
You should choose us for our unique sourcing from the Himalayan region, our focus on quality (high volatile oil content), our professional handling of logistics and documentation, and our commitment to building a transparent, long-term partnership.
In the rare event of a quality issue, we require a claim to be substantiated by a report from a neutral, internationally recognized third-party surveyor at the destination port. We are committed to resolving all genuine claims fairly.
Yes. We are happy to guide new importers through the entire process, explaining product grades, documentation requirements, and shipping logistics to ensure their first import is a success.
We work directly with farmer cooperatives and groups in the Himalayan region. This direct relationship ensures they receive a fair price for their produce, which promotes sustainable agriculture and supports local communities.
We welcome serious buyers to visit our sourcing areas with a prior appointment. This provides an excellent opportunity to understand the unique environment where our thyme is grown and to build a stronger partnership.
All bags are weighed on calibrated digital scales at the time of packing. The net and gross weights are certified on the packing list and Bill of Lading. We also welcome third-party inspection during loading to verify the weight.
While there is a main harvest season, we work with our partners to manage inventory and utilize proper storage techniques to ensure a consistent, year-round supply for our regular clients.
India offers a new and unique terroir for this classic herb. Sourcing thyme from India, especially as part of a larger consignment of spices, can provide a logistical advantage and a product with a distinct, potent aromatic profile.
Each client is assigned a dedicated account manager who provides regular updates via email. We are also available on WhatsApp for quick communication, sharing photos of the product, and real-time updates on the shipment status.
Yes, our relationship does not end once the shipment sails. Our team is always available to answer any questions regarding documentation, shipment tracking, or any other post-shipment support you may require.
Yes. Our high-quality thyme, with its high concentration of thymol and backed by a full Certificate of Analysis, is perfectly suitable as a raw material for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications.
The best way is to send us a detailed inquiry through our website's contact form or by email. Please include your company details and specific product requirements, and our team will get back to you promptly.
