Menthol
Menthol is an organic compound made synthetically or obtained from corn mint, peppermint or mint oils with flavoring and local anesthetic properties. It is a waxy, crystalline substance, colorless or white in color. Menthol is solid at room temperature and melts at slightly above.
Natural menthol exists mostly as one pure stereoisomer ie. (−)-menthol. Overall there are 8 possible stereoisomers.
USES
Menthol is used in solving dental problems. Other than that Menthol treats irritable bowel syndrome due to its ability to prevent or treat gas and bloating. Menthol is used in treating colds, flu and bronchitis. Menthol has local anaesthetic properties and can be used to numb pain and relieve minor aches and pains, such as muscle cramps, sprains etc.
TOXICITY and SAFTEY INSTRUCTIONS
Symptoms of exposure to this compound may include irritation of the skin, eyes, mucous membranes and upper respiratory tract. Menthol occasionally causes skin sensitization. This compound may be harmful by inhalation, ingestion or skin absorption. It is an irritant of the skin and eyes. Water must be applied thoroughly to the affected region of the skin.
Properties
Chemical formula C10H16
Molar mass 136.24 g·mol−1
Appearance colorless to pale-yellow liquid
Odor Orange
Density 0.8411 g/cm3
Melting point −74.35 °C (−101.83 °F; 198.80 K)
Boiling point 176 °C (349 °F; 449 K)
Solubility in water insoluble
Chiral rotation([α]D) 87° - 102°
Refractive index(nD) 1.4727