Menthol Crystals

Aroma: Peppermint

Properties: Cooling and fresh

Menthol crystals are colourless crystals. Menthol is obtained from the oil of the peppermint plant Mentha Piperita. To obtain the crystals, the oil is chilled to a temperature of -40°C, which separates the menthol and is then later crystallized by a slow cooling process. Menthol crystals will dissolve in oil or water.

As an aromatic chemical, it is mainly used as a lifting agent in fragrances such as lavender, rose, geranium, fougere and chypre, but is used in very small doses. One of the most popular uses for menthol in perfumery is in men's aftershaves, shaving creams and lotions, as it provides the cooling sensation. Menthol is the principal component of peppermint oil and as such finds extensive use in mint flavoured confectionary such as mints and chewing gum. Manufacturers of throat lozenges and toothpastes also use menthol.

Menthol also has medicinal properties and is widely used to help relieve sinus congestion e.g. inhalation in steam etc.

(Please note Scuddlebutt menthol is not sold as food grade material). 

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Revised: 6th June 2010