Thymol

Thymol IUPAC name 5-methyl-2-(1-methylethyl)phenol Identifiers CAS number SMILES CC1=CC(O)=C(C(C)C)C=C1 Properties Molecular formula C10H14O Molar mass 150.22 g/mol Density 0.96 g/cm3 Melting point

48-52 °C

Boiling point

232 °C

Except where noted otherwise, data are given for
materials in their standard state
(at 25 °C, 100 kPa)
Infobox disclaimer and references

Thymol is a monoterpene phenol derivative of cymene, C10H14OH, isomeric with carvacrol, found in oil of thyme, and extracted as a white crystalline substance of a pleasant aromatic odor and strong antiseptic properties. It is also called "hydroxy cymene". (from Webster's 1913 dictionary)

It has been found to be useful in controlling varroa mites in bee colonies.[1]A minor use is in bookbinding: before rebinding, books with mold damage can be sealed in bags with thymol crystals to kill fungal spores. It is also used as a preservative in halothane, an anaesthetic.

In a 1994 report released by five top cigarette companies, thymol was listed as one of 599 additives to cigarettes.[2] It is added to improve the flavor.

References

1. ^ Almond farmers seek healthy bees
2. ^ List of 599 Cigarette additives

See also