During the Middle Ages, and because it was considered a source of courage, Thyme was given by ladies to knights and also to warriors before going into combat. During this same period, thyme was often placed under pillows to help promote a peaceful sleep and ward off nightmares. The ancient Greeks used thyme in their baths and burned it as incense in their temples, while the Egyptians used it in their traditional ceremonies. Today, thyme is commonly used as a seasoning, but it also produces a potent essential oil that has cleansing and purifying effects for the skin; however, due to its high thymol content, thyme must be diluted with a carrier oil before application.