Thymol (phenylpropane) dosage

allows Thymol analysis for the quantification of this aromatic phenylpropanoid found in many aromatic plants, notably thyme (Thymus vulgaris) and oregano(Origanum vulgare).
Known for its antiseptic, antifungal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, thymol is a key component of essential oils and plant extracts used in nutraceuticals, cosmetics, and phytotherapy.

This analysis aims to determine the thymol content in a sample to ensure the standardization, conformity and stability of natural products.

Analytical methods and protocols

The analysis is performed by gas chromatography :

• GC-FID (flame ionization detector) : precise quantification of thymol in simple or standardized matrices.
• GC-MS (gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry) : specific identification and quantification in complex matrices such as essential or cosmetic oils.

The samples are extracted and possibly diluted before injection. The analysis is based on comparison with a pure thymol standard, allowing the content to be expressed as a percentage or mg/g.

The methods follow the ISO 7609, AFNOR NF T75-006 or European Pharmacopoeia, guaranteeing optimal analytical reproducibility.

Industrial and scientific applications

Thymol testing is used in many contexts:

• Nutraceuticals : control of plant extracts with antimicrobial or digestive activity.
• Cosmetics : verification of the content of active ingredients in antiseptic products, toothpastes or hair lotions.
• Phytotherapy : standardization of essential oils of thyme, oregano or ajowan.
• Agri-food : characterization of natural flavors and control of additives of plant origin.
• Animal hygiene and health : formulation of disinfectants and natural antiparasitic products.

Matrices involved

• Essential oils, plant extracts and macerates,
• Cosmetics and hygiene products,
• Dietary supplements and nutraceutical products,
• Aromatic raw materials (thyme, oregano, ajowan).

Further analyses recommended

For a complete characterization of the aromatic and phenolic profile of thymol-rich plants, YesWeLab recommends combining this analysis with:

• Carvacrol dosage, an isomer of thymol with antimicrobial properties,
• Assay of methyleugenol, another aromatic phenylpropanoid,
• Dosage of linalool, a terpene compound present in many essential oils,
• Stability test of essential oils to evaluate their evolution during storage.

YesWeLab's expertise

YesWeLab collaborates with a network of ISO 17025 and COFRAC accredited laboratories, specializing in analytical chromatography (GC-FID, GC-MS, LC-MS) and the standardization of plant extracts.

Thanks to the YesWeLab digital platform, you can:

• Order your analyses online,
• Track your samples and results in real time