what is thymol

Thymol is a natural monoterpenoid phenol derivative of p-Cymene, isomeric with carvacrol, found in oil of thyme, and extracted from Thymus vulgaris, ajwain, and various other plants as a white crystalline substance of a pleasant aromatic. It is chemically known as 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenol and is a colorless crystalline monoterpene phenol. Thymol has various pharmacological properties including antioxidant, free radical scavenging, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antispasmodic, antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic and antitumor activities. It is used in traditional medicine and is the active antiseptic ingredient in some toothpastes. Thymol is also used as a rapidly degrading, non-persisting pesticide. It is found in thyme oil and has a long history of antiseptic use.