Menthol crystals (sauna ice) have become very popular as a sauna scent, but few people know where these refreshingly fresh crystals actually come from and how they are practically made. In this article, we will delve into the origin of menthol, the manufacturing process and why natural menthol is a popular choice for sauna use.
What is menthol?
Menthol is a natural compound found especially in mint plants, such as peppermint and Japanese mint (Mentha arvensis). Menthol is responsible for the cooling sensation and fresh scent of mint. It belongs to the terpene alcohols and is known for its ability to activate the body's cold receptors - this creates the characteristic cool and refreshing sensation of menthol, even though there is no actual drop in temperature.
Making menthol crystals – step by step
Although menthol can also be produced synthetically, high-quality menthol crystals like Sauna Menthol are made naturally from mint oil without any artificial ingredients. Here are the main steps in the process:
1. Cultivation and harvesting of mint plants
Menthol is mainly produced from the Mentha arvensis variety, which is cultivated mainly in Asia. The plants are grown in organic conditions and harvested when ripe – usually twice a year.
2. Essential oil distillation
After harvesting, the mint leaves are dried and steam distilled to produce mint oil (peppermint oil or Japanese mint oil). This oil is rich in menthol and other aromatic compounds, such as menthol and isomenthol.
3. Crystallization of menthol
Menthol is separated from distilled mint oil by cooling the oil under controlled and very precise conditions. During cooling, the menthol naturally crystallizes , allowing it to be separated from the other components of the oil. The end result is white, strongly scented menthol crystals with a menthol content of up to 99%.
4. Cleaning and packaging
Menthol crystals are carefully cleaned and inspected to ensure quality. High-quality products are free of impurities and are safe for use in saunas, for example. The crystals are packaged in airtight packaging, where they remain effective and fresh for a long time. As a rule of thumb, the larger the crystals, the purer the concentration. It is difficult to control the size of the crystals because they are produced using natural methods. For this reason, larger crystals may occasionally appear in the Sauna Menthol package. The crystal can be easily broken through the bag by lightly squeezing or clicking it to make it smaller.
Is menthol crystal a natural product?
Yes. When menthol is naturally produced from mint oil by distillation and crystallization, it is a completely natural product , without any synthetic additives. Such menthol crystals are well suited for use in saunas, steam inhalations or even foot baths.
Sauna Menthol menthol crystals are 100% natural in origin and contain no artificial fragrances or fillers. You can use them safely and worry-free in your sauna water, enjoying the clean and fresh feeling of breathing air as part of your sauna routine.
Summary – why is menthol crystal an excellent choice for a sauna scent?
- Made naturally from peppermint oil
- Menthol content up to 99% ensures a strong, refreshing effect
- Contains no artificial chemicals or additives
- Perfect for sauna use, opens airways and refreshes
The journey of menthol crystals from mint leaves to sauna water is an example of combining nature and tradition with modern well-being. The next time you add Sauna Menthol sauna fragrance to your sauna water, you can be sure that you are using a product that is based on centuries of cultivation expertise and a carefully refined manufacturing process. This sauna fragrance is guaranteed to leave you cold.