Search: menthol
Why: It's in cigarettes, cough drops, and Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturizing Lotion with Cooling Menthol.
Answer: An organic compound made synthetically or obtained from peppermint or other mint oils. It is a waxy, crystalline substance, clear or white in color, which is solid at room temperature and melts slightly above. It is used:
- In non-prescription products (like lip balm and cough medicine) for short-term relief of minor sore throat and minor mouth or throat irritation
- As an antipruritic to reduce itching
- As a topical analgesic to relieve minor aches and pains such as muscle cramps, sprains, headaches and similar conditions, alone or combined with chemicals like camphor, eucalyptus oil or capsaicin (in products like Tiger Balm or IcyHot patches)
- In decongestants (like Vicks Vaporub) for chest and sinuses, in creams, patches, or nose inhalers
- As an additive in certain cigarette brands, for flavor, to reduce the throat and sinus irritation caused by smoking, and arguably to reduce stinky smokers' breath and possibly improve the smell of second-hand smoke
- Commonly used in oral hygiene products and bad-breath remedies like mouthwash, toothpaste, and more generally as a food flavor agent, like in candy and chewing gum
The More You Know: There is evidence that menthol has been known in Japan for more than 2000 years, but in the West it was not isolated until 1771, by Hieronymous David Gaubius. Charlie Pace's middle name was Hieronymous (not to be confused with Geronimo).
