DL-Menthol(CAS#1490-04-6)
| Risk Codes | R37/38 - Irritating to respiratory system and skin. R41 - Risk of serious damage to eyes R36/37/38 - Irritating to eyes, respiratory system and skin. |
| Safety Description | S36/37/39 - Wear suitable protective clothing, gloves and eye/face protection. S24/25 - Avoid contact with skin and eyes. S36 - Wear suitable protective clothing. S26 - In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice. S39 - Wear eye / face protection. |
| UN IDs | UN 1888 6.1/PG 3 |
| WGK Germany | 2 |
| RTECS | OT0350000 |
| TSCA | Yes |
| HS Code | 29061100 |
| Toxicity | LD50 orally in rats: 3180 mg/kg (Jenner) |
Introduction
Menthol is an organic compound with the chemical name menthol ether. It is one of the main components of peppermint oil and the main source of peppermint's odor.Menthol is also widely used in daily products such as fragrances, chewing gum, toothpaste, and skin cooling sprays to give a cooling sensation.The preparation of menthol is usually obtained by distilling or extracting peppermint oil. The mint plant is first crushed and distilled using water vapor, followed by condensation, concentration, and separation to extract menthol.Excessive use of menthol may cause symptoms such as difficulty breathing, skin irritation, headaches, etc. For pregnant and lactating women, as well as children, consult a physician before using menthol. Also, avoid touching the eyes and mucous membranes to avoid irritation.
Application
DL-Menthol (CAS 89-78-1 / 1490-04-6), also known as racemic menthol or (±)-menthol, is a synthetic 1:1 mixture of D- and L-menthol stereoisomers. This white crystalline powder exhibits a strong, characteristic peppermint aroma and a refreshing cooling, minty taste, with a cooling effect approximately 50% the intensity of pure L-menthol. As a high-purity synthetic ingredient, DL-Menthol offers cost-effective and consistent quality while meeting USP and BP pharmacopoeial standards.
DL-Menthol is widely utilized across multiple industries. In the pharmaceutical industry, it functions as a topical analgesic in ointments, creams, and gels for relief of minor aches, pains, muscle soreness, and itching; as a soothing agent in cough syrups, throat lozenges, decongestants, and nasal inhalers; and as a mild anesthetic and anti-inflammatory agent. In oral care, it is a key flavoring ingredient in toothpaste, mouthwash, and dental products, providing a clean, fresh sensation. In the food and beverage industry, it serves as a flavoring agent (FEMA 2665), imparting cooling and minty notes to chewing gum, hard candies, breath mints, chocolate, ice cream, baked goods, and beverages. In cosmetics and personal care, it adds cooling and refreshing properties to shampoos, lotions, body washes, shaving creams, aftershaves, foot sprays, and lip balms. In tobacco products, it is used as a flavor enhancer in menthol cigarettes and other smokeless tobacco formulations. Additionally, DL-Menthol is employed in aromatherapy for its invigorating scent, which helps alleviate stress and promote relaxation. Its high concentration allows for effective use at low dosages, making it an economical choice for large-scale applications.
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