How do you take Thymol; Alcohol (95% v/v)?

Pour about 20ml (roughly 4 teaspoons) of the mouthwash into the cap. Swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out. Use it twice daily: morning and night after brushing your teeth. Do not swallow it.

What are the side effects of Thymol; Alcohol (95% v/v)?

Burning or stinging feeling in the mouth when you use it, temporary change in taste, mild dryness of the mouth, slight teeth staining with long-term use

Who should not take Thymol; Alcohol (95% v/v)?

Children under 12 years old, people allergic to thymol or any essential oils, people recovering from alcohol addiction (due to the high alcohol content), anyone with open wounds or sores inside the mouth should use with caution.

OTC

Antiseptic mouthwash

Thymol; Alcohol

Q: What is Thymol; Alcohol (95% v/v) used for?

Bad breath (mouth odour), gum disease (gingivitis), plaque buildup on teeth, mouth infections, sore throat gargle, general oral hygiene

Last reviewed July 2026

Who is this for?

For adults (18+). Standard adult dosing applies: see the How to Take tab for full instructions.

What is this drug?

This is an antiseptic mouthwash solution that combines thymol (a natural germ-killing ingredient from thyme oil) with alcohol to kill bacteria and germs in your mouth. The alcohol helps the thymol dissolve and also acts as an extra germ killer.

How it works

Disrupts bacterial cell membranes and denatures microbial proteins through lipophilic penetration and coagulation, while the 95% ethanol enhances antimicrobial efficacy and promotes rapid evaporation. Thymol's phenolic structure confers antifungal and antiinflammatory properties by inhibiting microbial metabolic pathways and reducing oral biofilm formation on tooth surfaces and gingival tissues.

What is it used for?

Bad breath (mouth odour)gum disease (gingivitis)plaque buildup on teethmouth infectionssore throat garglegeneral oral hygiene

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Available Over The Counter

Get this from any pharmacy or chemist: no prescription needed.

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What to watch out for

Never swallow the mouthwash, as it contains a high amount of alcohol that can be harmful if ingested. Buy only from reputable pharmacies and supermarkets, not from roadside sellers, as fake products are common in Nigeria. This mouthwash is not a replacement for brushing and flossing, so use it as an addition to your normal oral care routine.

Common Side Effects

Burning or stinging feeling in the mouth when you use it
temporary change in taste
mild dryness of the mouth
slight teeth staining with long-term use

Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction such as swelling of the mouth
tongue
or throat: go to the hospital immediately. If a child swallows a large amount
rush them to the hospital as the alcohol can cause poisoning.

Drug Interactions

Do not use it immediately after using other medicated mouthwashes like chlorhexidine (Oral-B mouthwash) as they can cancel each other out. The alcohol content means you should avoid using it if you are taking metronidazole (Flagyl) as it may cause nausea and vomiting. If you are using any mouth ulcer medication, wait at least 30 minutes before using this mouthwash.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before using during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as the alcohol content may be a concern even though you spit it out.

Who Should NOT Take This

Children under 12 years old
people allergic to thymol or any essential oils
people recovering from alcohol addiction (due to the high alcohol content)
anyone with open wounds or sores inside the mouth should use with caution.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so do not leave it in your car or near a window. Keep the cap tightly closed and store far away from children, as the alcohol content makes it dangerous if swallowed by a child.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.