Evidence supporting the use of: Thymol
For the health condition: Fungal Infections

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Thymol is a natural monoterpene phenol found in thyme oil and has been traditionally used as an antiseptic and preservative. Its antifungal properties are supported by a growing body of scientific research, primarily in vitro (laboratory) and some in vivo (animal and topical human) studies. Thymol disrupts fungal cell membranes, leading to leakage of cell contents and subsequent cell death. Studies have demonstrated its efficacy against a range of fungal pathogens, including Candida albicans, Aspergillus species, and dermatophytes responsible for skin infections like athlete’s foot.

For example, a 2016 review published in Frontiers in Pharmacology highlights thymol’s antifungal activity and potential as a therapeutic agent, particularly in combination with other antifungals, which may help overcome resistance. Another study in the Journal of Medical Microbiology (2007) showed that thymol exhibited fungicidal activity against Candida species at concentrations lower than those toxic to human cells.

However, most evidence comes from laboratory research, with limited clinical trials confirming its efficacy and safety in humans for treating fungal infections. Thymol is included in some over-the-counter topical antifungal products, reflecting both its traditional and scientific support. Overall, while the evidence is promising and mechanistically sound, it remains primarily preclinical, justifying a moderate evidence rating.

More about Thymol
More about Fungal Infections

Other ingredients used for Fungal Infections

Ajoene
Aloe vera
alpha-pinene
barberry
basil
beta-pinene
bisabolol
black walnut
caprylic acid
chamomile
cinnamon
turmeric
goldenseal
green tea
lactoperoxidase
lauric acid
monolaurin
oregano
oregon grape
phenolic compounds
rosemary
sage
schizonepeta
undecylenic acid
neem tree
nut grass
commiphora
caesalpinia crista
pau d'arco
lemongrass
morinda
oriental arborvitae
zanthoxylum
polyphenols
eucalyptus
camphor oil
menthol oil
melaleuca alternifolia
geranium
10-Undecenoic Acid
3-Phenyllactic Acid
Agarikon Mushroom
Alpha-terpineol
Ardisia
Allicin
Anamu
Ajuga
Ampelopsis
Allyl Sulfide
Allyl isothiocyanate
Allium tuberosum
Alantolactone
Bee Propolis
Babchi
Baphicacanthus cusia
Barleria
Brazilian peppertree
Bisabolene
Bee hive
Borate
Black Nightshade
benzyl isothiocyanate
Borneol
Curry leaf
Caryophyllene
Calendula
Cinnamomum
coconut oil
Carvacrol
Cajuput
Citral
Centipeda
Chalcone
Copaiba Oil
Citronella
Dianthus
Euphorbia
Eugenol
Geraniol
Gnaphalium
Glyceryl monolaurate
gamma-terpinene
Garlic
Glyceryl caprylate caprate
Glechoma hederacea
Geranial
Hedyotis
Houttuynia
Henna
Herb Robert
Indian Fagonia
Jojoba Oil
Kefir
Lebbek
Litsea
Lichen
Laggera pterodonta
Lodhtree
Lantana camara
Leptospermum scoparium
Liverwort
Linalool
Labdanum
Mountain Pepper
Mustard
Melia
Mangostin
Mahonia
Marigold
Marking Nut Tree
Macaranga indica
Naphthoquinones
Oroxylum indicum
Onosma bracteatum
Propolis
Pentacyclic triterpenoids
Phlorotannins
Plumbago zeylanica
Plectranthus amboinicus
Polygodial
Rue
Sophora
Self-Heal
Salvia
Soapberry
Sandalwood
Sapindus mukorossi
Stereospermum
Sumac
Sulfur
Storax
Terpinen-4-ol
Thuja
Thymol
Thaumatococcus daniellii
Tulbaghia
Tea Tree Oil
Thiosulfinate
Terpinolene
Violet
Wrightia tinctoria
Water Pepper
Winter Savory
Zingiberene

Products containing Thymol

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.