Crystallized menthol is derived from menthol, a monoterpene cyclic alcohol found in various mint species, such as peppermint and spearmint. Widely used in various industries, it stands out in cosmetics, providing relaxation, freshness, and a pleasant minty aroma to products. In addition to the cosmetics industry, it is used in food production, especially sweets, and in pharmaceutical products, generally with anti-inflammatory properties.
Obtaining crystallized menthol
Menthol, obtained by synthesis or extraction from Mentha piperita oil, is a waxy, crystalline, whitish material. For its crystallization, menthol essential oil undergoes several processes, including heating, filtration, dehydration, and freezing. Heating and filtration are crucial steps to separate menthol from other substances present in the essential oil.
Menthol is a substance capable of promoting a refreshing effect and relieving irritation, in addition to being analgesic and anti-inflammatory. Furthermore, it acts as a weak blocker of opioid receptors. At room temperature, menthol is in a solid state and melts a few degrees above that.
Crystallized menthol, with its unique properties, is widely used in various industries due to its flavor and medicinal characteristics. In the cosmetics industry, it is used to provide sensations of relaxation, refreshment, and denaturation, as well as acting as a skin soother. In the production of pharmaceuticals, it stands out in anti-inflammatories, decongestants, and anesthetics. It is also used in the food industry due to its distinctive flavor, which incorporates the pleasant taste of mint and the refreshing sensation associated with this plant.
Applications of crystallized menthol
Crystallized menthol is used in the production of various products, including foods, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Get to know some of them:
Foods:
- Lozenges
- Bullets
- Chewing gum
- Bubble gum
- Ice creams
- Coverages for the most varied purposes
- Syrups
- Liqueurs
- Confectionery
Cosmetics and personal hygiene:
- Cream or body lotion
- Shampoo
- Size reducing gel
- Toothpaste
- Foot deodorant
- lip gloss
- Hair mask
- Relaxing cream for feet and legs
- Mouthwash
- Massage oils
- Baby wipes
- Perfumes
- Talcs
Pharmaceutical area:
- Ointments
- Medicines
- Cough syrups
- Teas
- Nasal inhalants
- Aerosols
- Nasal spray
- Balsamic pastes
