Cornmint ORG

Production

Harvest

Cornmint (Mentha arvensis) is an aromatic perennial plant from the Lamiaceae family, traditionally cultivated in Europe and Asia for the richness of its essential oil. Unlike North American varieties, this European species stands out due to its unique composition, particularly its significant linalool content, which makes it a distinctive and sought-after raw material.

The plant is grown outdoors in temperate regions with high humidity, which supports dense foliage growth. The leafy stems are harvested from spring through summer, just before full flowering, to maximize the yield of aromatic compounds. This cultivation method results in a fresh, green, and slightly floral olfactory profile, setting it apart from more common mint varieties.

Manufacturing

We source our essential oil from a local exporter who works closely with harvesters and distillers based in northern India.

The extraction process follows these key steps:

Plant harvesting
Cornmint (Mentha arvensis) is harvested when its essential oil concentration peaks, generally just before or at the onset of flowering.

Preparation of plant material
Stems and leaves are cut and then sorted to remove any unwanted parts.

Steam distillation
The plant material is placed in a still. Steam is injected to release the essential oils from the leaf cells. The steam, now carrying the essential oil, is directed into a condenser.

Condensation of the steam
The steam-oil mixture is cooled: water (hydrosol) and essential oil are recovered in liquid form. The oil usually floats on the surface due to its lower density.

Separation and filtration
The essential oil is carefully separated from the hydrosol using a separator. It is then filtered to remove any residual impurities.

Storage
The essential oil is stored in dark glass bottles, protected from light and heat to preserve its properties.

Quality control
Each batch undergoes thorough analysis for purity, chemical composition (notably menthol, menthone, and esters), and organoleptic profile, ensuring consistent quality.

Application

Cornmint essential oil is primarily used in hair care products and soaps, where its refreshing properties and menthol scent are especially valued.

It is particularly appreciated for:

Providing a cooling sensation in shampoos, conditioners, or hair lotions.

Stimulating the scalp, especially in toning or purifying formulations.

Fragrancing soaps or shower gels with a fresh, green, and invigorating note.

Being incorporated into creams or balms with a cooling effect (often sought in leg care formulas, for example).

Thanks to its high menthol content, this essential oil delivers a strong and instantly recognizable olfactory signature that enhances aromatic compositions in hygiene and personal care products.

Aromatherapy :

Cornmint essential oil has a unique biochemical profile that contributes to both its olfactory characteristics and its applications in aromatherapy. It is primarily composed of:

Menthone (5–20%): Offers camphoraceous, fresh notes with a stimulating effect.
Menthyl acetate (2–7%): Adds softer, fruity nuances, balancing the oil’s more intense facets.
Isomenthone (2–13%): Contributes to aromatic balance with slightly mentholated, herbal tones.

These compounds give the essential oil a refreshing, herbaceous scent that is widely used in energizing or purifying blends. Its aromatic richness, while subtler than that of peppermint oil, makes it ideal for balanced formulations.

Technical and regulatory

Usage tips

Manual:

Flavour. For food. To be diluted first in a fatty substance. Not more than 37g per kg of final food preparation. Keep out of reach of children. Do not apply directly to the skin. Not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women, or by young children (under 6).

Consult our guides: storage and preservation methods and precautions for use