Menthol

Menthol belongs to the family of terpene alcohols or monoterpenols and is therefore recognized for having the following properties:

Powerful broad-spectrum anti-infectious properties:

• Antibacterial
• Antiviral
• Antifungal
• Antiparasitic
• Immune modulators (increases deficient immunoglobulins; decreases excess immunoglobulins)
• Neurotonic

However, menthol is also widely considered an antinociceptive.

At physiological and therapeutic doses, terpene alcohols or monoterpenols do not present toxicity. They can be applied directly to the skin for a short duration. However, for sensitive skin, it is advisable to dilute them in a carrier oil.

Menthol is a molecule present in the Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) essential oil.