Menthol

Menthol is a covalent organic compound made synthetically or obtained from peppermint or other mint oils with flavoring and local anesthetic properties. The main form of menthol occurring in nature is (−)-menthol, which is assigned to the (1R, 2S, 5R) configuration. Menthol has a large amount of clinical application and a wide range of pharmacological effects, especially its odor. Menthol has local anesthetic and counterirritant qualities, and it is widely used to relieve minor throat irritation. When added to pharmaceuticals and foods, menthol functions as a fortifier for peppermint flavors. It also has a counterirritant effect on skin and mucous membranes, thereby producing a local analgesic or anesthetic effect. It is an important external drug excipient and active ingredient and has good application prospects.

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