The essential oil of thyme leaves, listed as an antimicrobial, antioxidant and preservative ingredient.
What it is
Thymus vulgaris leaf oil is, according to CosIng, the volatile oil obtained from the leaves of common thyme, Thymus vulgaris, of the mint family (Lamiaceae). CosIng lists it as an antimicrobial, antioxidant and preservative ingredient.
Where it is used
Appears on the ingredient lists of a small number of products.
Limits of interpretation
The INCI list shows which ingredients are present, not how much of each. Above 1%, ingredients are listed in descending order of weight; below 1% the order is free.
As a natural essential oil, its composition can vary between batches. The INCI name does not show which chemotype was used.
Functions
- Antimicrobial
- Preventing and/or slowing down microbial growth.
- Antioxidant
- Inhibiting reactions promoted by oxygen, thus avoiding oxidation and rancidity.
- Preservative
- Exclusively or mainly intended to inhibit the development of micro-organisms in the cosmetic product. All authorised preservatives are substances in the positive list of Annex V to the Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009.
EU regulation
This ingredient is not listed in the annexes of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 in the CosIng data.