Thyme Essential Oil
A herbaceous, evergreen-edged thyme essential oil from Morocco. Woody, medicinal, faintly green — with a name that comes from the Greek word for 'perfume' itself.
Botanical profile
- Latin name: Thymus satureioides
- Origin: Morocco
- Extraction: Steam distilled from the leaves
- Aroma: Woody, medicinal, herbaceous — described as spicy and green
- Perfumery note: Middle
- Blends well with: Bergamot, grapefruit, lemon, lavender, rosemary, pine
Traditional uses & properties
- Used in ancient Greek, Egyptian, and Roman herbal practice
- Burned as incense in Greek temples
- Part of traditional Egyptian embalming preparations
- Carried by knights for courage in medieval Europe
- An ingredient in many traditional aromatic disinfectant blends
History
The name 'thyme' comes from the Greek thymos — meaning 'perfume.' Thyme has been used in herbal practice across the Mediterranean for thousands of years. In medieval Europe, a sprig of thyme was carried into courtrooms to help ward off plague; knights were given thyme as a symbol of courage.
Main constituents
Carvacrol, thymol, β-caryophyllene, borneol, linalool, α-terpinene, p-cymene, β-pinene, camphene, α-pinene
How to use
If the oil crystallizes in cool temperatures, place the bottle in a hot water bath until it returns to liquid; shake before use. Add a few drops to an aromatherapy diffuser, or 1-2 drops on a tissue or cotton ball for personal inhalation. For topical use, dilute to 1-3% in a carrier oil (jojoba, fractionated coconut, or sweet almond) — about 2-9 drops per 30ml. Patch test inside the elbow before broader application.
Safety
External use only. A 'hot' oil — strongly diluted use only (under 1% in a carrier). Patch test before first use. May irritate mucous membranes. Avoid in pregnancy, with high blood pressure, on broken skin, and around children.
Storage
Store sealed in a cool, dark place. Most essential oils keep 1-3 years; citrus oils oxidize faster — best within 12 months.
This information is for educational purposes only. Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or condition. Always dilute essential oils for skin application; patch test before first use; keep away from children and pets.