Thyme absolute (CAS 8007-46-3) — Green Middle Note Fragrance Ingredient
Thyme absolute
CAS 8007-46-3
What Is Thyme absolute?
Thyme absolute is a concentrated aromatic extract derived from the thyme herb, commonly encountered in Mediterranean cuisine and natural personal care products. Its robust herbal character makes it a favorite for adding depth to fragrances and flavor profiles. This ingredient matters because it bridges culinary and perfumery traditions, offering antimicrobial properties alongside its distinctive scent.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does Thyme absolute Smell Like?
Thyme absolute bursts with an aggressively green, medicinal aroma reminiscent of crushed herb gardens under Mediterranean sun. The initial phenolic punch (think Band-Aids and clove cigarettes) mellows into a warm, leathery herbaceousness with camphoraceous undertones. Over hours, it reveals an unexpected honeyed sweetness lurking beneath its rugged exterior – like wild herbs growing through sun-baked rocks.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Thyme provides the aromatic backbone in this citrus chypre, contributing to its famously crisp herbal character that defined masculine perfumery for decades.
Used here for its savage, untamed quality that perfectly complements the leather and castoreum in this uncompromising fragrance.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Thyme absolute contains thymol (30-50%) and carvacrol as principal phenols, along with p-cymene, γ-terpinene, and linalool. These monoterpenoids are responsible for its antimicrobial properties. The composition varies significantly based on chemotype – thymol-dominant varieties are more medicinal while linalool-rich versions are sweeter.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Viscous amber liquid |
|---|---|
| Density | 0.91-0.94 g/cm³ |
| Refractive Index | 1.490-1.505 |
Key Constituent Properties
| Constituent | CAS | MW | BP °C | XLogP | Vapor P. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thymol | 89-83-8 | 150.22 | 233°C | 3.3 | 0.02 mmHg |
| Carvacrol | 499-75-2 | 150.22 | 237°C | 3.4 | 0.01 mmHg |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Adds herbal complexity |
| Functional Products | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Antimicrobial properties |
Classic Accords
Tip: Best added during middle phase of compounding to preserve top notes.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Similar phenolic profile but with more pronounced spice notes, useful when needing extra warmth.
Higher thymol content (50-60%) for more medicinal punch in functional formulations.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No restrictions under IFRA 49th Amendment.
EU Allergen Declaration
None declared under EU Regulation No 1223/2009.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
RIFM assessment completed – safe at current use levels.
Sustainability
Wild thyme harvesting threatens some Mediterranean ecosystems. Responsible sourcing from cultivated crops or controlled wild collection is essential. Steam distillation yields are typically 0.5-1.2%, making this a relatively resource-intensive material.
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References
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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