Menthol Crystals

Menthol is largely used as a flavoring or olfactory agent in a variety of products, including cigarettes, liqueurs, cough drops, mouthwashes, toothpastes, and shampoos. Menthol has been used in different medications to relieve symptoms of asthma and rhinitis and is a constituent of cold remedies and ointments designed to be rubbed on to the chest or applied around and even into the nostrils.

Menthol has an expectorant action, which enables it to thin and loosen the mucus that builds up in the respiratory tract. Accordingly, inhalations of menthol can improve congestion in the nose and throat linked to colds. By placing hot water in a bowl at home you can recreate the effects of a steam room using the vapor from the water to do inhalations of the menthol or apply a few drops into your bath instead, Menthol cannot be applied directly to the skin without being diluted as it can sensitize the skin. Alternatively, menthol rubs can be applied to the chest and back.