Menthol crystals are a fairly common ingredient for the pharmaceutical industry. These crystals are formed of solidified peppermint oil and thus exhibit crystalline structure. If you observe closely, menthol crystals are clear, small, and very brittle. Nevertheless, they have a wide range of applications that is not just limited to the pharmaceutical industry.
How menthol crystals are manufactured?
Methanol crystals are derived naturally from mint oils and are also manufactured synthetically. The menthol that is naturally found in the Mentha arvensis botanical, is the key ingredient used to manufacture menthol crystals. Generally, the crystals are manufactured via the process of steam distillation to extract peppermint oil. Further, to create pure menthol crystals out of these oils, they are distilled further and immediately frozen. Created crystals maintain a solid state at room temperature. Otherwise, they have a melting point of around 107 degrees Fahrenheit. Apart from these physical properties, menthol crystals are soluble in alcohol but are miscible in oils.
Uses and benefits of menthol crystals
Menthol has a surprisingly wide range of applications from pharmaceuticals, perfumes, personal care, hygiene products, etc. Organic menthol crystals have an identifiable natural mint odor and it gives produces a cooling sensation after consumption/application. Additionally, menthol has antipruritic, antispasmodic, anti-irritant, and local anesthetic properties. This makes a perfect ingredient for cosmetic as well as medicinal products.
Let’s find out about the uses and benefits of menthol
- When used for bath, body, and cosmetics products menthol crystals tend to produce a cooling sensation on the skin as they engage the cold-sensitive receptors. Thus are considered excellent ingredients for products that help us in treating skin irritation, burning, and itchiness. Also, menthol-based products help in reducing dark spots and other signs of skin aging.
- The most identifiable application of menthol is in oral hygiene products such as mouthwashes, toothpaste, etc. They are mostly preferred as they provide a refreshing flavor and help you in eliminating bad breath.
- Menthol crystals are often used in various mint pharmaceutical products such as cough medicines, throat infections, etc. Additionally, as these crystals provide a cooling sensation they are considered ideal ingredients for products used for treating inflammation, muscle sprain, body ache as well as cramps. Moreover, conditions such as nausea caused by motion sickness, dizziness, or headaches can be alleviated with the help of menthol.
- Besides benefiting skin conditions, menthol helps in eliminating dandruff from the scalp, reducing lice infections, alleviating inflammation, reducing scalp irritation, and removing excess sebum from the scalp surface. This ultimately improves hair texture and brings back its natural shine.
- Furthermore, menthol is also used in consumable products. It’s often used as a flavoring agent in hard candies, chewing gums, etc. Additionally, menthol is used in combination with anise or any of such ingredients to create a different taste profile for the consumer.
- Aromatherapy practices involve the use of menthol crystals as they help in relaxation, stress relief, alleviate fever symptoms, provide relief for severe headache, ease sinus discomfort, and boost overall mood. Moreover, it energizes the mind and body, thus ultimately improving your immunity.
Conclusion
With all these benefits it is no surprise that menthol has great demand in the pharmaceutical industry. There are several pharmaceutical outsourcing companies that provide high-quality raw materials for producing concentrated menthol crystals or they provide final product i.e., menthol crystals.
Nevertheless, a word of caution. Do not go overboard with menthol crystals, as too much can also cause headaches. Additionally, make sure you handle crystals with appropriate precaution and care.
