Thyme Extract (Thymus Vulgaris) CAS 84929-51-1

Thyme Extract (Thymus Vulgaris) – Natural Antiseptic and Antioxidant Ingredient for Skincare and Aromatherapy

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 84929-51-1

• Botanical Name: Thymus vulgaris

• Part Used: Leaves and flowering tops

• Extraction Method: Steam distillation or solvent extraction

• Appearance: Light green to amber liquid

• Odor: Characteristic spicy-herbaceous, with distinct thyme notes

• Solubility: Insoluble in water; miscible with oils and alcohol

• Storage: Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dark place, protected from light and heat

Overview
Thyme extract is obtained from the leaves and flowering tops of the Thymus vulgaris plant, a Mediterranean herb known for its powerful medicinal and aromatic properties. The extract is rich in bioactive compounds, primarily thymol, carvacrol, and other volatile phenolic compounds, which are responsible for its potent antimicrobial, antioxidant, and soothing activities. It is widely used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and aromatherapy for its ability to cleanse, protect, and calm the skin, as well as to provide a natural, herbaceous fragrance.

Chemical Composition
The primary active constituents of thyme extract include:

• Thymol: A phenolic monoterpene with strong antiseptic and antifungal properties.

• Carvacrol: A phenolic compound with antimicrobial and antioxidant activity.

• Flavonoids: Such as luteolin and apigenin, which provide additional antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

• Tannins and triterpenic acids: Contribute to astringent and soothing effects.

Physicochemical Properties

• Antimicrobial: Effective against a wide range of bacteria, fungi, and yeasts.

• Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals, protecting skin from oxidative stress.

• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and irritation, soothing sensitive and acne-prone skin.

• Natural preservative: Extends the shelf life of formulations by inhibiting microbial growth.

• Astringent: Helps tone and tighten skin, reducing excess sebum.

Applications

• Skincare: Used in toners, lotions, creams, and serums for oily, acne-prone, and irritated skin; helps calm inflammation, reduce blemishes, and balance sebum production.

• Pharmaceuticals: Added to topical ointments, antiseptic solutions, and wound-healing preparations for its antimicrobial and tissue-repairing properties.

• Aromatherapy: Used in diffusers and massage oils to create a cleansing, uplifting, and refreshing atmosphere.

• Natural preservative: Incorporated into clean beauty formulations to reduce the need for synthetic preservatives.

• Hair care: Used in scalp treatments to soothe irritation and combat dandruff.

Key Benefits

• Provides effective antimicrobial and antiseptic protection.

• Soothes inflammation and calms irritated skin.

• Protects skin from environmental stress and oxidative damage.

• Natural preservative with broad-spectrum activity.

• Versatile – suitable for skincare, hair care, and aromatherapy.

• Plant-derived, natural, and compatible with clean beauty standards.

• Compatible with a wide range of cosmetic and pharmaceutical ingredients.

Recommended Use
Typical usage levels depend on the application:

• Skincare: 0.5–2.0% for soothing and antimicrobial effects.

• Aromatherapy: 1–3 drops per 10 ml of carrier oil.

• Natural preservative: 0.5–1.0% in combination with other preservatives.

• For optimal performance, incorporate into the oil phase or add after emulsification.

Safety and Handling

• Thyme extract is generally safe for topical and aromatic use at recommended concentrations.

• May cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals; perform a patch test before use.

• For external use only; do not ingest.

• Store in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles) when handling.

• Shelf life: typically 24 months under recommended storage conditions.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for purity, active content (thymol and carvacrol levels), and microbial contamination to ensure consistent quality and compliance with cosmetic and pharmaceutical standards.