Menthol

Menthol is a cyclic monoterpene alcohol found in mint oils and also made synthetically. It produces a minty odor and a cooling sensation by activating cold-sensitive receptors.

TRPM8: TRPM8 is an ion channel activated by cool temperatures and compounds such as menthol. Menthol activates this cold-sensitive channel, generating a cooling sensation.
Monoterpene: A monoterpene is a compound built from two isoprene units, typically containing ten carbon atoms. Menthol belongs to the monoterpene family.
Peppermint: Peppermint is a hybrid mint plant whose leaves yield an aromatic essential oil rich in menthol. Peppermint is a familiar botanical source of menthol.
Topical analgesic: A topical analgesic is a substance applied to the skin to relieve localized pain. Menthol is used in topical products that provide a cooling counterirritant sensation.
Isomenthol: Isomenthol is a stereoisomer of menthol with a different spatial arrangement around its ring. Its structure differs from menthol’s, changing its sensory and physical properties.
Chemesthesis: Chemesthesis is the perception of chemical irritation, cooling, or warmth through sensory nerves. Menthol’s cooling effect is a chemical sensation, not a change in skin temperature.
Alcohol (chemistry): An alcohol is an organic compound containing a hydroxyl group bonded to a carbon atom. Menthol’s hydroxyl group makes it a monoterpene alcohol.
Mentha arvensis: Mentha arvensis is a mint species cultivated as a major source of menthol-rich oil. Its oil is used commercially to obtain natural menthol.
Counterirritant: A counterirritant is a topical substance that produces a mild sensation intended to distract from discomfort. Menthol’s cooling sensation can temporarily mask the perception of minor pain.
Neomenthol: Neomenthol is a stereoisomer of menthol with a distinct arrangement of substituents. It is one of menthol’s closely related stereoisomers, but is less strongly cooling.

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