Because of Thyme

Thymol is an organic compound which occurs mainly in the volatile oils of Thymus vulgaris, common thyme . It is then found in copious amount in oils of thyme, and horsemint for example. It is then extracted as a white crystalline substance of pleasant aromatic odor. However, it is very common in many other plant tissues in lower quantity.Thymol does not help the plant to grow per se, but plays an important role in its defense against predators by producing a "poison" like substance that repels enemies.

It was discovered by Caspar Neumann

in 1719, and was later purified in 1853 by M. Lallemand who gave it the name "Thymol".

It has been found to be an antiseptic and disinfectant; used by Dr. Lister during surgeries. He experimented with many naturally occurring compound to settled on thymol which seemed to stop an infection, heal a wound and mostly save a limb and ultimately saved lives. Dr. Lister had been influence by the observations of Pasteur and thus became the "inventor" of antiseptic surgery. That little simple plant was now known to kill bacteria and fungi. That was a revolutionary idea in 1860!

In the literature many examples of the thymol properties can be found. Ancient Egyptians, during the Bronze Age period used thymol in the form of a preparation extracted from the common thyme, the herb that we use today, because of its known ability to preserve mummies.

In North America, many centuries later... Bee Balms (Monarda fistulosa and Monarda didyma) were scattered throughout the continent. The Blackfeet Native Americans knew of the special properties of this "common" plant as a strong antiseptic. They would simply make a poultice using the plant and they would apply it to the skin to control minor wounds and infections. Even today in herbal books, recipes of tea made with Bee balms can be found, and it is used to treat mouth and throat infections.

Another interesting usage of thymol was its use in bookbinding: before rebinding an old book which had mold damaged, the book was placed in a sealed bag with some thymol crystals to kill any fungal spores. This technique is still used today.

The latest that interest beekeepers the most is the recent discovery of thymol usage to control Varroa mites and prevent fermentation and growth of mold in colonies.

Thymol is the active ingredient in the only 100% botanical disinfectant with an EPA registration number (#74771-1). The EPA, or Environmental Protection Agency, is the U.S. government agency that regulates chemical products such as insecticides and pesticides. The EPA is responsible for registering the tested effectiveness and classifying the safety of each product for use for both the consumer and the environment. Before an insecticide, pesticide (disinfectant) may be sold; it must be registered and approved by the EPA for kill claims and safety.

With all this history, and anecdotes regarding thymol, I hope this natural medication is going to save my honey bees.