Menthol - A Mint Extract

Menthol is a chemical compound that can be derived from mint suchs as peppermint or made synthetically through chemical processes. Mint is a genus of plants containing roughly 25 species of perennial herbs. Mint is able to grow in many climates, but generally prefers cool weather and moist soil. Some of the most commonly known varieties of mint are spearmint and peppermint.

Menthol has been around for at least 200 years, as it was isolated in 1771 by a man named Gambius. It is possible that the Japanese were using menthol for much longer however, perhaps as far back as 2000 years. Because the demand for menthol now outstrips the ability to supply it from natural sources, menthol is commonly synthesized rather than extracted from mint.

There are various uses for menthol, including relieving a sore throat, applying as a cream to sore or painful muscles, and helping with indigestion and stomach aches. One of the most common uses of menthol in is topical creams intended to soothe muscle pain. When applied to the skin, creams with menthol in them produce a cold sensation that helps to reduce pain. In Asian cultures menthol has long been used to treat aches of all kinds, including indigestion, nausea, headaches, and sore throats. Menthol is known as an anesthetic, or a chemical that inhibits signals from the nervous system, such as pain. This is one of the reasons menthol is so effective at treating sore throats and muscle aches.

Menthol can also be found in various non-medical products. Cigarettes have long featured menthol both as a flavoring as well as a way to soothe one’s throat from the harsh smoke. The strong minty flavor of menthol can be found in many foods and beverages, especially products like gum and breath mints. Menthol’s is also often found in dental care products like toothpaste and mouthwash because it freshens one’s breath and reduces bad odors.

Menthol interacts with our nervous systems in a unique way, causing a cold sensation when consumed or applied to the skin. In fact, one recent studied showed that one of the same nervous system receptors that sense temperature and pain is activated by menthol. This new understanding has interested many scientists who are looking at menthol for its ability to inhibit pain. Menthol is special in that it acts locally on painful areas rather than most pain killers which act on the nervous system as a whole.

Note: This information is a summary of data from books and articles by various authors. It is not intended to replace the advice or attention of health care professionals.

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