What is the Difference Between Carvacrol and Thymol?

Carvacrol and thymol are both cyclic organic compounds with the same chemical formula (C10H14O), but they have slightly different structures. The key difference between the two lies in the position of the hydroxyl group in their benzene ring structure.

• Carvacrol: Contains a hydroxyl group at the ortho position of the benzene ring, ortho to a methyl group. It is a colorless to pale yellow liquid, insoluble in water but highly soluble in ethanol, acetone, and diethyl ether. Oregano, marjoram, and savory are usually rich in carvacrol.
• Thymol: Contains a hydroxyl group at the ortho position of the benzene ring, ortho to an isopropyl group. It is a crystalline compound with a strong odor, soluble in alcohol and other organic solvents but only slightly soluble in water. Thymol is found in high quantities in thyme, ajowan, and basil.

Due to the difference in the position of the hydroxyl group, thymol is more hydrophobic than carvacrol. This property influences their behavior when separated on a reversed-phase HPLC column, where the more hydrophobic compound (thymol) binds more strongly to the stationary phase and elutes later than the less hydrophobic compound (carvacrol).

Comparative Table: Carvacrol vs Thymol

Carvacrol and thymol are both cyclic organic compounds with the same chemical formula (C10H14O), but they have slightly different structures. The key difference between carvacrol and thymol is the position of the hydroxyl group in their benzene ring structure. Here is a comparison table of their differences:

Both compounds are structural isomers and have similar antimicrobial properties. They are found in various plant species, including thyme, oregano, and other Lamiaceae family members.