Evidence supporting the use of: Thymol
For the health condition: Scabies

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Thymol, a natural monoterpene phenol derived from thyme oil, has a long history of traditional use for various skin conditions, including scabies. Its use for scabies is primarily based on its known antiseptic, antifungal, and insecticidal properties as recognized in folk medicine and traditional healing practices, particularly in regions where modern pharmaceutical treatments are less accessible. However, scientific evaluation of thymol specifically for the treatment of scabies (Sarcoptes scabiei infestation) is limited. There are a few in vitro studies that show thymol’s acaricidal (mite-killing) activity, but clinical trials in humans are lacking.

Historically, thymol and thyme oil have been included in topical preparations aimed at reducing itch and controlling skin parasites. Some reports suggest that thymol can kill mites in laboratory settings, but its efficacy and safety compared to standard treatments like permethrin or ivermectin remain unproven in rigorous clinical settings. The World Health Organization and standard dermatological guidelines do not list thymol as a recommended scabicide.

In summary, the use of thymol for scabies is primarily justified by tradition and some preliminary laboratory evidence, but robust clinical validation is lacking. As such, it may be considered an alternative or adjunct in certain cultural contexts, but not a scientifically validated first-line therapy.

More about Thymol
More about Scabies

Products containing Thymol

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