Antiseptic and disinfectant
Description
Thyme oil is obtained from the Thyme plant by steam distillation.
Thyme is a small, evergreen herb that grows low to the ground, up to a height of around 15 inches. It bears white to purple flowers. Whole plants and flowering tops are harvested as flowering commences. They are distilled for oil or dried for elixirs, liquid extracts and infusions (some infusions use fresh herb).
The main constituents of the oil are thymol and carvacrol and it is often used as a disinfectant. It is used in mouthwashes, surgical dressings, and soaps. It is well known for its antiseptic, bactericidal and carminative properties. Aromatherapists use thyme oil on skin and scalp complaints.
