Thymol is a natural phenolic substance in Thymus Vulgaris Extract Powder. In recent years, thymol has attracted much attention as a potential and safe alternative to feed antibiotics. This article summarizes the antibacterial effects and mechanisms. In order to provide a reference for its future in-depth research and comprehensive development and utilization.
Thymol Antibacterial Effect
Numerous studies have revealed that thymol or thymol-containing plants have significant antibacterial activity. And it has a broad spectrum and has an inhibitory effect on most Gram bacteria. Common Gram-positive bacteria such as Salmonella, Bacillus pertussis, Chromobacterium violaceum, and Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes are common. But the mechanism of action of thymol against different bacteria varies. It can play a role in resisting bacteria by inhibiting the transcription and translation of toxic substances in bacteria, enhancing the expression of some antibacterial genes in animals, and inhibiting the formation of bacterial biofilms.
In addition, thymol can work with other substances to enhance antibacterial activity. For example, thymol can be used as an antibiotic adjuvant in combination with antibiotics. It can be combined with volatile compounds in essential oils to inhibit Salmonella, and has certain commercial value. It also binds to bacteriophage. Compared with the use of Thymus Vulgaris Extract Powder or bacteriophage alone, the amount of Salmonella in chicken products can be greatly reduced.
Thymol Antifungal Effect
Thymol also inhibits the production of fungal cells. Fungal cell walls and cell membranes play an important role in the normal life activities of cells. The main component of fungal cell walls is lipopolysaccharide. It can destroy the normal structure of the cell wall by inhibiting the release of lipopolysaccharide and exert an antibacterial effect. And more resistant to lower levels of chitin cell wall. It can be used in combination with cell wall or cell membrane disruptors to further effectively inhibit fungal growth or bypass fungal drug resistance.
At present, thymol has been recognized by the European Commission as a flavoring agent in food, and recognized as a recognized safe food additive by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This shows that Thymus Vulgaris Extract Powder has great potential.