Thymus vulgaris type linalool is the soft antimicrobial oil that brought the concept of chemotypes to the aromatherapy consciousness. In the 1980s, pioneering distillers in Provence noticed many Thyme plants on higher elevations had a much different, lighter fragrance than the regular culinary Thyme found at lower elevations and along the coast. Thyme oils distilled from the plants on the plateau, now termed Thymus vulgaris type linalool, were discovered to be much less irritating than the regular Thyme. This is due to the different composition of the two. The thymol type displays the typical hot and stimulant qualities of the thymol, whereas the linalool type is mild and elegant reflecting its terpene alcohol components.

Thyme linalool has the same powerful antimicrobial qualities found in the thymol chemotype, but without its burning and irritating aspects. For this reason it is a standard component of blends formulated to treat acne and other skin disorders. Because of its mild character, French style aromatherapy recommends Thyme linalool for the treatment of respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis or sinusitis in children. Phillipe Mailhebiau recommends the oil for spiritual uplift and emotional renewal.

The year's harvest has finally arrived! It has been cultivated on the plateaux of Vaucluse and Haute Provence around Simiane-la-Rotonde, Sault, Banon and Ongles. We are offering a 15% discount on #146 Thyme linalool from January 21st through Tuesday, January 26th or until supplies run dry —quantities are very limited.