Thymol
Thymol (2-isopropyl-5-methylphenol, CAS 89-83-8) is a naturally occurring monoterpenoid phenol found in the essential oils of thyme, ajwain and related plants. It forms colourless crystals with a characteristic aromatic odour and is valued for its antiseptic, antimicrobial and flavouring properties. It is used in oral-care products, pharmaceuticals, veterinary and apicultural treatments, and as a stabiliser and laboratory reagent.
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Thymol
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Thymol (C10H14O, molar mass approx. 150.22 g/mol) is a phenolic monoterpenoid and a structural isomer of carvacrol. It occurs as colourless to white crystals or crystalline powder. It is only slightly soluble in water but readily soluble in ethanol, ether and oils. Commercial material is obtained by extraction from essential oils or by synthesis, typically by isopropylation of m-cresol.
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What is thymol used for?
Thymol's antimicrobial activity explains its use in mouthwashes, toothpastes and topical antiseptic preparations. It also serves as a flavouring substance in foods and fragrances. It acts as a stabiliser in certain inhalational anaesthetics, such as halothane. Beekeepers use it to control Varroa mites. In the laboratory, it is a precursor for the pH indicator thymol blue and an occasional preservative for biological samples.
Which grades and specifications are available?
Thymol is supplied in technical, reagent and pharmacopoeial grades. Monographs exist in the European Pharmacopoeia (EP) and USP–NF. Procurement teams should check the CoA for:
- assay (typically by GC)
- melting point (approx. 49–51 °C)
- residue on evaporation
- related substances
Food-grade material should be checked against the applicable food additive or flavouring regulations.
What are the main safety and regulatory considerations?
Under GHS, thymol is commonly classified as harmful if swallowed and as causing severe skin burns and eye damage. It is also classified as toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects. Users should consult the supplier's SDS for current classification, personal protective equipment and storage advice. Store thymol in well-closed containers, protected from light. Thymol is registered under REACH (EC 201-944-8), and its use in biocidal and plant-protection products is subject to separate EU authorisation.
Related concepts
Thymol is closely related to carvacrol, its positional isomer, and to other phenolic antiseptics such as eugenol and chloroxylenol. See also essential oils, monoterpenoids, thymol blue, menthol and pharmacopoeial grade specifications.
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