Pronunciation: [θˈa͡ɪmɒl] (IPA) 
Thymol is a commonly used antiseptic and disinfectant. Its spelling is based on the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) which represents the sounds of human speech. In IPA, the "th" sound is denoted by the symbol /θ/, while the "y" sound is represented by the symbol /j/. The "m" sound is spelled as /m/, and the vowel in the second syllable is denoted by /ɒ/. Therefore, thymol would be phonetically transcribed as /ˈθaɪmɒl/.
Thymol is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C10H14O. It is a white crystalline substance that is classified as a monoterpene phenol. Thymol is found naturally in various plants, particularly in the herb thyme (Thymus vulgaris), from which it derives its name.
Thymol has a distinct aromatic odor and a similar taste, often described as strong, spicy, and slightly sweet. It is widely used for its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties and has been employed in traditional medicine for centuries. Thymol's medicinal properties can be attributed to its ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms.
In the field of healthcare, thymol is extensively utilized as an active ingredient in various antiseptic and disinfectant products. It is commonly found in mouthwashes, throat sprays, and topical antifungal creams. Thymol is also used in the food industry as a flavoring agent due to its pleasant aroma and taste. It can be found in products like toothpastes, chewing gums, and certain liqueurs.
Thymol also has applications beyond healthcare and food. It is utilized as a preservative in cosmetic products such as creams, lotions, and perfumes. Additionally, thymol is employed in the agricultural industry as a natural pesticide due to its ability to combat plant pests and diseases.
In summary, thymol is a natural compound found in thyme and commonly used for its antiseptic, antimicrobial, and flavoring properties. Its versatile nature makes it valuable in various industries, including healthcare, food, cosmetics, and agriculture.
Thymic acid, C10H14O, a phenol present in the volatile oil of Thymus vulgaris (thyme), Monarda punctata (horsemint), Carum copticum or Ptychotis ajowan (ajowan seed), and in other volatile oils; it is obtained chiefly from ajowan oil; occurs in large colorless prismatic crystals, insoluble in water, of the odor of thyme; employed externally and internally as an antiseptic, as a deodorizer of offensive discharges, and as a specific for uncinariasis in doses of gr. 1/2-3 (0.03-0.2).
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "thymol" is derived from the Greek word "thymon", which means thyme. Thymol is a compound found in the essential oil of thyme, hence its name.
