The Ricqlès adventure began in the XIXᵉ century in the south of France, driven by the passion of a young Dutch merchant, Heyman de Ricqlès. An experienced botanist, he discovered peppermint (Mentha Piperita) in Provence and immediately perceived its potential. Aware of its beneficial properties, he embarked on extensive research to extract its active ingredients.
In 1838, after much experimentation, Heyman de Ricqlès perfected a unique distillation process, enabling him to obtain a high-quality essential oil. This jealously guarded know-how has remained unchanged for almost two centuries. Ricqlès mint alcohol was born, and its success was immediate.
Initially distributed for personal and family use, it quickly spread to pharmacies thanks to its benefits for digestion, headaches and fresh breath. Officially recognized and rewarded by Louis-Philippe 1ᵉʳ, Ricqlès became an essential reference in French pharmacy.
Buoyed by its growing reputation, the brand filed its first patent in 1849, and in 1857, the name"Alcool de menthe de Ricqlès" was registered with the Lyon Commercial Court. The company, now run by Heyman's descendants, expanded rapidly.
The story took an even more dramatic turn in 1914, when theFrench army included a bottle of Ricqlès in its soldiers' kit. This decision propelled the brand far beyond its borders, and secured it an international reputation. From the French colonies to Asia and North America, mint alcohol became an invaluable ally for everyday well-being.
Between the wars, the brand became firmly established in French homes, where it became an indispensable remedy. In the 1950s, Ricqlès diversified its range with mint-flavored pastilles and candies, offering a refreshing and beneficial experience for the throat. The secret of its success lies in the exceptional quality of its essential oil, extracted with the utmost care to preserve all its beneficial properties.
Tradition continues to evolve. True to its values of quality and authenticity, Ricqlès is developing new product ranges: pastilles, sugared almonds, chewing gums and other confectionery. What do all these products have in common? An inimitable signature: the intense freshness of peppermint.
In 2020, Ricqlès opens a new chapter in its history by entering the oral care market. Still guided by the excellence of peppermint, the brand now offers products specifically designed to ensure long-lasting fresh breath and a healthy mouth.
Thanks to innovative formulations, the new Ricqlès products incorporate natural peppermint extracts, renowned for their antibacterial and refreshing properties. The range's capsules, chewing gums and tablets are designed to work instantly, neutralizing unpleasant odors while delivering an unrivalled sensation of purity.
For almost two centuries, Ricqlès has embodied authenticity, purity and innovation. Its unique heritage and unrivalled expertise make it an iconic brand, always ready to reinvent freshness.
Ricqlès is much more than Alcool de Menthe! Today, the brand offers a wide variety of products designed for your daily well-being.
Ricqlès is committed to offering products designed with ingredients of natural origin, guaranteeing impeccable quality. The peppermint extracts used are rigorously selected to offer optimal refreshing properties, while respecting the environment and local ecosystems. The brand is committed to an eco-responsible approach, favoring manufacturing processes that respect the planet.
Thanks to its exceptional heritage and ongoing innovation, Ricqlès remains a benchmark for well-being and freshness, seducing every generation with its authenticity and proven effectiveness.
