Red Thyme – thymol

Botanical Name

Thymus vulgaris L.

Plant Family

Lamiaceae

Country of Origin

Worldwide. Native to Spain and the Mediterranean region. Mainly produced in Spain, France, Israel, Greece. Morocco, Algeria, Germany and the USA.

Common Method of Extraction

Steam Distilled

Plant Part Typically Used

Leaves and Flowers/Buds

Color

Varying shades of pale yellow and pending the chemotype

Consistency

Medium

Perfumery Note

Middle

Strength of Initial Aroma

Medium – Strong

Aromatic Description

Red Thyme oil has an herbal, spicy, earthy aroma.

Possible Substitute Oils

Oregano, niaouli, geranium, marjoram, palmarosa

Blends Well With

Bay laurel, bergamot, camphor, clary sage, copaiba, cypress, eucalyptus, geranium, grapefruit, lavender, lemon, juniper, melaleuca (tea tree), marjoram, orange, oregano, petitgrain, pine, ravensara, rose, rosemary, sage, Spanish sage,

GRAS status

YES

Thyme Essential Oil Uses

Analgesic, Antiparasitic, Antibacterial, Antifungal, Antiviral, Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, Antirheumatic, Antiseptic, Anesthetic, Arthritis, Colds, Cuts, Dermatitis, Flu, Insect Bites, Laryngitis, Lice, Muscle Aches, Oily Skin, Poor Circulation, Scabies, Sore Throat, Supports Cardiac Function, Antitumor, Antioxidant, Antispasmodic, expels excess gas, supports healthy cell division, encourages normal bone turnover (remodeling), diuretic, reduces the appearance of scars and blemishes, eases chronic and deep-set cough, relieves sports injuries, reduces hair loss, expectorant, wound healing, increases redness and circulation of a localized area, reduces headache, stimulating, antidepressant, boosts memory and concentration, promotes self-confidence and self-assurance, combats despondency, relieves fatigue, diminishes guilt.

Source: Julia Lawless, The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils (Updated Edition) (London: Harper Thorsons, 2014), 191-192.
Dr. Scott A. Johnson, Evidence-Based Essential Oil Therapy (Scott A. Johnson Professional Writing Services, 2015), 249-254.

Major Constituents of Thyme ct. thymol Essential Oil

• Thymol
• p-Cymene
• Carvacrol
• Gamma-Terpinene
• B-Caryophyllene
• Linalool
• a-Pinene
• a-Terpinene

See Essential Oil Safety for more complete list of typical constituents.

Source: B.M. Lawrence, Essential Oils 1981-1987 (Wheaton: Allured Publishing, 1989), 106. A. Velasco-Neguerela, M.J. Perez-Alonso. Nuevos Datos Sobre la Composicion Quimica de Aceites Essenciales Procedentes de Tomillos Ibericos. (Botanica Complutensis 16, 1990), 91-97. Sources cited in Robert Tisserand and Rodney Young, Essential Oil Safety (Second Edition. United Kingdom: Churchill Livingstone Elsevier, 2014), 451.

Thyme Essential Oil Safety Information

Tisserand and Young indicate that there is moderate risk for mucous membrane irritation, it may inhibit blood clotting and pose a drug interaction hazard. There is a low risk of skin sensitization, and Tisserand and Young recommend a dermal maximum of 1.3%. Reading Tisserand and Young’s full profile is recommended. [Robert Tisserand and Rodney Young, Essential Oil Safety (Second Edition. United Kingdom: Churchill Livingstone Elsevier, 2014), 452-454.]

This essential oil poses a higher risk of causing irritation and sensitization when used in the bath. Avoid using it in the bath, even if it is solubilized/diluted.

Cautions for use of Thyme Essential Oil will varying according to chemotype.

Recommended Dilution Range

1.5%-20%; 50% for some conditions

General Safety Information

Do not take essential oils internally nor apply undiluted essential oils, absolutes, CO2s or other concentrated essences onto the skin without advanced essential oil knowledge or consultation from a qualified aromatherapy practitioner. Read, Birkat Natural’s, Guide to Diluting Essential Oils, for general dilution information. If you are currently experiencing pregnancy, epileptic, have liver damage, have cancer, have any other medical problem, or are otherwise under the care of a physician, use oils only under the proper guidance of a qualified aromatherapy practitioner. Use extreme caution when using oils with children and be sure to first read the recommended dilution ratios for children. Consult a qualified aromatherapy practitioner before using oils with children, the elderly, if you have medical issues or are taking medications. Carefully read Birkat Natural’s Essential Oil Safety Information page, before using any essential oil. For in-depth information on oil safety issues, read Essential Oil Safety by Robert Tisserand and Rodney Young.

The FDA has not evaluated the statements on this website. No claims are made by Birkat Adonai Farm, LLC as to the medicinal value of any products from Birkat Adonai Farm, LLC. The information presented here is for educating our customers about the traditional uses of essential oils and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. You are responsible for understanding the safe application of these products. If you have any questions, please call or email us for further information.