Executive Summary
Thyme essential oil (TEO), derived from Thymus vulgaris L., exhibits significant antimicrobial and antifungal properties that position it as a potent natural agent for air purification. Its high content of bioactive compounds—primarily thymol (up to 40.35%) and carvacrol (up to 31.25%)—enables disruption of microbial membranes, degradation of cell walls, and inhibition of pathogen proliferation in airborne and surface contexts34. Vapor-phase TEO demonstrates superior efficacy compared to liquid-phase applications, with concentrations as low as 2.13 µL/cm³ effectively inhibiting Candida spp. and 0.64 µL/cm³ suppressing Penicillium growth69. Synergistic formulations with bacterial cellulose or probiotics enhance its stability and antimicrobial effects. Despite its promise, challenges such as volatility control, safety protocols for inhalation, and optimized delivery systems require further research. This report synthesizes current evidence for TEO’s role in sustainable air decontamination.