Download Oils that contain Phenols

Chemical Family: Phenols
Phenols
Phenols are known to be reactive as they release their hydrogen hydroxyl (-OH) and bind with other
positively-charged molecules, including protein which can be harsh and cause skin damage. Essential oils
containing phenols are aggressive in nature and have a strong aroma. It is the benzene ring (6-carbon
ring) that distinguishes it from alcohols. The benzene ring is typically drawn with a circle in the middle
to signify that all the bonds in the ring are equal. Like alcohols, many phenol names end in “-ol.”
Phenols tend to be base to middle notes, lasting longer on the skin. They are also responsible for the
fragrance of an oil.
Pictured left to right is the molecular structure of carvacrol, eugenol, thymol, members of the Phenols
chemical family.
Phenols Chemical Component Family and Oils that Have Them
Eugenol can be protective to the liver, but only in low concentrations. In high concentrations, it is
hepatotoxic and can cause damage to tissues. When used in acute illnesses and with infections, phenols
can stimulate the immune system. Phenols are strengthening and analgesic and anti-inflammatory.
Thymol found in thyme is beneficial for acute respiratory infections. Clove Bud essential oil is 67%
phenols and is excellent for combating infections, but should be avoided by people on blood thinners
due to its high eugenol content. They contain high levels of oxygenating molecules and have anioxidant
properties.
Carvacrol
Eugenol
Thymol
Chavicol
Methyl eugenol
Methyl chavicol anethole
Anti-inflammatory, anti-infectious, antioxidants,
radical savenger
Analgesic, anti-inflammatory
Anti-inflammatory, anti-infectious
Anti-inflammatory,
anti-infectious,
anticancerous
Safrole
Myristicin
Apiol
Oils that contain Phenols





Cinnamon Bark - cinnamomum-zeylanicum
Clove Bud – Eugenia caryophyllata
Oregano – Origanum vulgare
Savory - Satureja montana
Thyme – Thymus vulgaris CT thymol
Phenols’ Therapeutic Properties
have an anti-inflammatory effect on bronchial asthma (see safety considerations).










Analgesic
Antiseptic
Antibacterial
Antifungal
Antispasmodic
Antioxidants
Antiviral
Rubifacient
Stimulant to immune system
Warming
Safety Considerations
Essential oils high in phenols tend to be very irritating to the skin and mucous membranes and should
be used with care. Can be used with success when diluted properly. It is recommended to use only at a
1% dilution and used with other skin-nourishing oils to balance your blend.
Phenol-rich oils can be irritating to the skin in a bath. Should not be used on individuals with skin issues
or dermatitis.
Essential oils high in eugenol, thymol or carvacrol inhibits platelet aggregation and should not be used
by people with blood clotting disorders or individual anticoagulant drugs such as aspirin or warfarin or
before surgery.
The shelf life of essential oils containing phenols tends to be three to five years.