Indications
L-Menthol is the natural cooling substance found in peppermint and other mint oils. In medicines it is used on the skin to ease minor muscle and joint aches, sprains, backache and itching, and as an inhalant, rub or lozenge to give a feeling of easier breathing with a blocked nose, cough or cold. It is also used for its cooling feel in mouth and throat products.
How It Works
Menthol switches on cold-sensing receptors (called TRPM8) in the skin and lining of the nose and mouth. This creates a cooling sensation that distracts from pain and itch, an effect known as counter-irritation. In the nose it makes air flow feel easier, even though it does not actually shrink swollen tissue.
Dosage and Administration
Use exactly as directed on the label, because strength and form vary between products.
- Creams, gels, balms and rubs: apply a thin layer to the painful or itchy area and rub in gently, usually up to 3 to 4 times a day. Wash your hands afterwards.
- Inhalants and vapour rubs: inhale or apply to the chest and throat as directed on the label; do not put inside the nose.
- Lozenges: let one dissolve slowly in the mouth, as directed on the label.
Do not apply to broken or irritated skin and do not cover tightly with a bandage or use a heating pad over it.
Interactions
Serious interactions are not expected with normal use. Avoid using other heating or cooling rubs on the same area at the same time, as this increases the risk of skin irritation or burns. Ask a pharmacist before combining with other cold or pain products that also contain menthol, camphor or methyl salicylate.
Contraindications
- Allergy to menthol or peppermint.
- Do not apply on or near the nose or face of babies and young children under 2 years, as menthol can trigger breathing spasms in infants.
- Do not use on wounds, damaged skin, eyes or mucous membranes unless the product is made for that use.
Side Effects
Most people have no problems. Possible effects include stinging, redness, burning or a strong cold feeling on the skin, rash or skin allergy, and with inhaled products, eye watering or throat irritation.
Stop using and get urgent medical help if you have blistering or severe burning of the skin, swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, or if a child has swallowed the product or has breathing trouble after it was applied.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Small amounts used on the skin are generally considered low risk in pregnancy, but ask your doctor before regular use. If breastfeeding, do not apply to the breast or nipple area and wash your hands before handling the baby, so the baby does not breathe in or swallow menthol.
Precautions and Warnings
- Keep away from the eyes; rinse with water if contact happens.
- Test on a small area first if you have sensitive skin.
- Do not use for more than 7 days on the same pain without medical advice; see a doctor if pain or symptoms worsen.
- People with asthma may find strong menthol vapour irritating.
Overdose
Swallowing menthol products, especially concentrated oils, can cause stomach pain, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, confusion and, rarely, seizures. Seek emergency medical help straight away if a product is swallowed, particularly by a child.
Therapeutic Class
Topical counter-irritant and cooling agent; inhaled aromatic decongestant.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and heat, with the cap tightly closed, out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.