Thymol

Other names: thymol

Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)

Thymol is a natural compound that is part of the essential oil of thyme. It was named after the Latin name for this herb - thymus. It is a colorless crystalline substance with a characteristic smell that is widely used in medicine and cosmetics. Thymol is reputed for its strong antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which make it effective in fighting various types of bacteria and yeasts.

In the cosmetic industry, thymol is used as an ingredient in many personal care products such as toothpastes, mouthwashes, soaps and disinfectants. Since it has the ability to destroy bacteria, it is excellent for preventing tooth decay and gingivitis. In medicine, thymol is used in antiseptic and disinfectant preparations such as wound care solutions. In the food industry, thymol is often used as a natural preservative because of its antimicrobial effect. It is also a component of some pesticide formulations for pest control. Thymol is also used in veterinary medicine, where it serves as an anthelmintic, i.e. a substance against parasitic worms.