Thyme Essential Oil

Latin name Thymus vulgaris – Family species Labiatae

thyme Thymus vulgaris is also known as Common Thyme and Garden Thyme. Thyme linalool oil, aka Sweet Thyme, is also sometimes referred to as White Thyme oil, not to be confused with Red Thyme oil aka Wild Thyme. Although the uses are reportedly the same, Thyme Linalool is said to be gentler and, as such, is found to be recommended over Red Thyme.

Andrew Chevallier states, “Thyme volatile oil is strongly antiseptic — the constituent thymol, in particular, is a most effective antifungal. The oil is also an expectorant, and it expels worms.” (The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants)

Oil Selection Guide

Color – Pale yellow
Viscosity – Medium
Scent – Woody, herby, sweet, green, medicinal
Perfume Aroma – Middle / top note

Oil Source Information

Plant Type – Herb
Parts Used – Leaves, Flowering tops
Countries of Origin – France, Spain
Extraction Method – Steam distillation

Known Chemical Constituents

6-isopropl-m-cresol, terpenoid phenol thymol, isomer carvacrol, cymol, linalool, camphene, cymene, borneol

Applications and Uses

Thyme oil is used in aromatherapy and is also found in cleaning products, pharmaceutical products, mouthwashes, toothpastes, cough lozenges, and as a fragrance in soaps, toiletries, and aftershaves. Also used in commercial food and drinks.

Thyme blends well with

Precautions / Contraindications

Resources say that thyme essential oil, if used, should be used sparingly.
It has been suggested that those suffering from high blood pressure avoid Thyme oil.
Thyme is recommended not to be used in baths.
As with all essential oils, be sure to buy from a reputable source if using therapeutically.
(It is cautioned that Red Thyme should be avoided altogether.)
See also Essential Oils Safety and Usage.

References and Resources

See Aromatherapy References and Resources page.