Menthol (also called menthol) is familiar to many Finns, especially from the fresh scent of the sauna, which opens the airways and creates a refreshing experience during the steam bath. But the use of menthol is not limited to the sauna — this natural raw material is very versatile and is widely used in cosmetics, food, the pharmaceutical industry and wellness products. In this article, we will take a look at the history of menthol and tell you where it is used today.
The history of menthol: at the source of freshness
Menthol has been used for centuries for its cooling, refreshing and invigorating effects. Menthol was first isolated from Japanese peppermint oil in the 18th century, and in the 19th century it began to be produced and used industrially on a larger scale in Europe. Originally, menthol was used primarily for medicinal purposes: to relieve respiratory symptoms, relieve pain and freshen breath. With the industrial revolution and the development of chemistry, menthol became an important ingredient in many different fields, and today it is produced both from natural sources and synthetically.
Use of menthol in cosmetics and hygiene products
One of the biggest uses of menthol is in cosmetics and personal care. Its cooling effect and fresh scent make it a popular ingredient in products such as:
- In shampoos and conditioners – menthol stimulates the scalp and provides a fresh feeling during washing.
- In skin care products – for example, gels and creams – menthol is used to cool and soothe the skin.
- In toothpastes and mouthwashes – menthol brings a feeling of cleanliness and coolness to the mouth, which is why it is used in almost all refreshing oral hygiene products.
- In deodorants and aftershaves – menthol's refreshing and cooling properties make it an effective and pleasant addition to products where a refreshing effect is needed.
In cosmetics, menthol also surprisingly acts as a deodorizer and mild antiseptic, which increases its versatility.
Menthol in foods and beverages
Menthol is also widely used in the food and beverage industry, particularly in the production of peppermint and menthol flavors. Its fresh taste and cooling effect make it popular in, for example:
- In sweets and chewing gums
- In lozenges and throat lozenges
- In dental candy and refreshing drinks
- In ice creams and desserts where menthol is combined with chocolate, for example
Menthol is safe in food use, and is used in very small concentrations to bring freshness and a recognizable taste. For example, the menthol crystals contained in Sauna Menthol are 100% natural menthol crystals, which can in principle be eaten. However, this is not recommended, but they are a completely natural product.
The importance of menthol in pharmaceutical and wellness products
The effects of menthol are not just about smell and taste — it also has physiological properties that are utilized in many medicines and wellness products:
- Products that open the airways, such as nasal sprays, cough lozenges, and steam inhalation products, utilize the cooling and refreshing effect of menthol.
- Pain gels and liniments applied to the skin often contain menthol, which causes a cooling sensation and can relieve muscle and joint pain.
- In massage and relaxation products, menthol has a refreshing and at the same time calming effect.
Menthol's effect is based on the fact that it stimulates cold receptors in the skin and mucous membranes, which gives the brain a cool sensation — even though there is no actual drop in temperature.
Menthol in the sauna – the perfect addition to steam baths
In Finland, menthol is particularly familiar to us from sauna products. When menthol is added to the sauna water and the heater, it creates a fresh and respiratory-opening feeling that makes the sauna session even more invigorating. Menthol products, such as Sauna Menthol's sauna ice, are perfect for bringing a spa-style atmosphere to the sauna and effectively relieving, for example, congestion or flu symptoms.
In the sauna, menthol evaporates with the steam water and spreads evenly throughout the sauna. Many people find a menthol sauna to be a particularly relaxing and cleansing experience – it refreshes the body and mind.
Use of menthol in industry and other products
Menthol's uses don't stop with consumer products. It's also used in:
- In tobacco and nicotine products (e.g. menthol cigarettes, snuff, nicotine pouches) to provide a cool taste — although menthol cigarettes are banned in the EU, menthol is still used in substitute products in some markets.
- In perfumery, because menthol's fresh scent often acts as a base or top note in perfumes.
- In the chemical industry and laboratory use in many flavoring and pharmaceutical components.
Summary
Menthol is much more than just a “fresh scent in the sauna”. It is a versatile and valued natural substance that is widely used in everything from cosmetics and food to medicines and sauna products. Its long history and versatile properties make it a highly sought-after raw material — and in Finnish saunas, its use is considered by many to be an essential part of a perfect sauna experience. We strongly recommend trying Sauna Menthol’s high-quality menthol crystals. This product, called sauna ice, will make your sauna a perfect sauna experience.