What is menthol and what are its properties?
Menthol is a natural organic compound extracted mainly from peppermint(Mentha × piperita). Recognized for its intense refreshing effect, it is used in cosmetics, pharmacy and aromatherapy for its many therapeutic virtues.
Main properties :
- Cooling and anesthetic action: It stimulates cold receptors in the skin and mucous membranes, providing an immediate sensation of freshness.
- Analgesic effect: relieves muscular pain, headaches and skin irritations.
- Decongestant properties: Helps clear the respiratory tract in case of colds, sinusitis or allergies.
- Stimulates blood circulation: applied locally, it promotes microcirculation and has a toning effect.
- Antibacterial and antifungal properties: It limits the proliferation of certain bacteria and fungi responsible for skin infections.
How does menthol act on skin and mucous membranes?
Menthol is a key ingredient in many cosmetic and pharmaceutical sk incare products, thanks to its refreshing and soothing effect. When applied to the skin or inhaled, it activates cold receptors, creating an instant sensation of freshness while reducing pain and inflammation.
- In muscle gels and creams: its analgesic effect soothes pain and tension.
- In respiratory balms: It clears nasal passages and makes breathing easier.
- In hair care products: It stimulates the scalp and promotes hair growth.
- In toothpastes and mouthwashes: It freshens breath and limits bacterial proliferation.
Is menthol effective against muscle and joint pain?
Thanks to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, menthol is an essential ally for relieving muscle and joint pain. It is often used in massage gels, heating patches and pain creams to :
- Reduce muscle soreness and tension after physical exertion.
- Soothe pain associated with rheumatism and osteoarthritis.
- Reduce the sensation of heavy legs by stimulating blood circulation.
How can menthol be used to clear the respiratory tract?
Menthol is an excellent natural decongestant that helps clear bronchial tubes and the nose in the event of colds or sinusitis. It can be used in several ways:
- Inhalation: A few drops of menthol essential oil in a bowl of hot water helps clear sinuses.
- In chest balms: Applied to the chest, they facilitate breathing.
- In lozenges or syrups: they soothe the throat and provide an immediate sensation of freshness.
Can menthol be used to freshen breath?
Yes, menthol is one of the most common ingredients in toothpastes, chewing gums and mouthwashes. Its antibacterial and refreshing action helps to :
- Neutralize unpleasant odours by eliminating the bacteria responsible for bad breath.
- Provide a lasting sensation of cleanliness after brushing.
- Stimulate saliva production, preventing dry mouth.
What are the side effects and contraindications of menthol?
Although menthol is a natural compound, it should be used with caution, particularly in intensive use or in certain sensitive populations.
- Not recommended for children under 6 when inhaled or applied to the chest (risk of respiratory spasms).
- Irritating to skin and mucous membranes in high concentrations, especially when used over long periods.
- May cause allergic reactions in certain sensitive individuals.
- Avoid in cases of asthma or respiratory disorders: its stimulant effect may aggravate certain symptoms.
Where to buy quality menthol?
Menthol is available as anessential oil, as pure crystals or as an ingredient in various cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. It's advisable to opt for natural, pharmaceutical-grade menthol, which can be found in pharmacies, herbalists' shops or on websites specializing in aromatherapy.
Does menthol have benefits for skin and hair?
Yes, menthol is widely used in skin and hair care products for its refreshing, purifying and stimulating properties. It is particularly appreciated in shampoos, creams and lotions for sensitive or oily skin and scalps.
Skin benefits:
- Soothes irritation and itching: It provides a cooling effect that immediately relieves sensations of overheating.
- Reduces redness and inflammation: Helps calm skin reactions, particularly in the event of sunburn or insect bites.
- Regulates sebum production: In skin care products for oily skin, it helps mattify the skin and limit excess shine.
Its benefits for hair:
- Stimulates the scalp: By activating microcirculation, it promotes better oxygenation of hair follicles, which can help boost hair growth.
- Fights dandruff and itching: its antiseptic and purifying properties help to cleanse the scalp.
- Provides a sensation of intense freshness: Highly appreciated in shampoos for its invigorating effect, it leaves a feeling of lasting cleanliness.
Does menthol help improve sporting performance?
Menthol is increasingly used by athletes and sportspeople for its cooling and analgesic effects, which improve recovery and performance. It is present in warming balms, recovery gels and pain-relieving patches to soothe muscles and promote relaxation after exercise.
Its beneficial effects for athletes:
- Reduced muscle pain: Thanks to its local anesthetic effect, it helps to soothe aches and pains associated with muscle soreness and microtrauma.
- Improved endurance: Its cooling effect reduces the perception of exertion, enabling athletes to prolong their performance.
- Stimulation of blood circulation: Applied as a massage, it promotes muscle oxygenation and accelerates recovery.
- Beneficial respiratory effect: Inhaled before intense physical effort, it clears the respiratory tract and improves breathing capacity.
To optimize its benefits, menthol is often combined with other natural active ingredients such asarnica, camphor or eucalyptus essential oil, which reinforce its action on pain and muscle recovery.
Is menthol a good remedy for stress and mental fatigue?
Yes, menthol is a powerful mental stimulant that helps combat fatigue and lack of concentration. Its fresh, penetrating fragrance acts directly on the nervous system, providing an immediate sensation of mental clarity and vitality.
How does it work on the mind?
- Reduces stress and anxiety: Its refreshing effect has a soothing impact on the nervous system, helping to calm tension and improve mood.
- Boosts concentration and memory: It stimulates cognitive functions and enhances alertness, particularly during periods of mental fatigue.
- Combats mental fatigue: Inhaled or applied to the temples, it provides an immediate boost of energy.
Menthol can be used in a variety of ways to benefit from its energizing effects:
- Inhalation: A few drops of menthol essential oil on a handkerchief helps restore concentration and clarity of mind.
- As a roll-on or balm: Applied to the wrists or temples, it provides an immediate invigorating effect.
- As an infusion or dietary supplement: Combined with other plants such as ginseng or rhodiola, it helps improve intellectual and physical capacities.
Thanks to its revitalizing and energizing properties, menthol is a genuine natural ally for regaining dynamism and well-being on a daily basis.
