One active ingredient is the phenol, an assortment of organic compounds with an aromatic ring is linked with the alcohol group. The family, known as the phenols, does not mind being given another name, such as carbolic acid or benzenol. The molecular formula for the phenol formula is C6H5OH.

Being a polar molecule the phenol is soluble water.Other physical characteristics of phenol include its physical state as being a colorless liquid, as well as the high temperature at which it boils. The solid form of phenol appears white in color at room temperature. It is described with a pleasant smell.