Thyme

Thymus vulgaris

A potent herbal oil with among the strongest antimicrobial profiles in aromatherapy. Used for immune and respiratory support. Use at low dilutions only.

Aroma herbalsharpwarm
Blend note middle
Extraction steam distillation
Shelf life 2–3 years
Key warnings
  • Thymol chemotype is highly irritating to skin and mucous membranes

Top uses

Immune support Respiratory Opens airways and eases breathing Antimicrobial Fatigue

Safety at a glance

Pregnancy
Avoid
Babies
Avoid
Children
Avoid
Dogs
Avoid
Cats
Avoid
Topical
Dilute only
Max dilution 1%
  • Use at low dilutions — thyme ct. thymol is a strong sensitizer
  • Avoid during pregnancy
  • Not suitable for children
  • Prefer thyme ct. linalool for sensitive individuals

Blends well with

R
Rosemary middle
Fresh lavender sprigs with purple flowers and an amber essential oil bottle on a linen background
Lavender middle
L
Lemon top
T
Tea Tree top

Thyme oil is distilled from the leaves and flowering tops of Thymus vulgaris. Its properties vary significantly by chemotype — thymol and carvacrol chemotypes are highly antimicrobial but also highly sensitising, while the linalool chemotype is much gentler and suitable for more general use. Most commercially available thyme oil is the thymol chemotype.