Menthol – the relaxing coldness

Menthol is contained in the essential oil of several species of mint plants, such as peppermint and wild mint. It can also be extracted or synthesised from other essential oils such as citronella oil, eucalyptus oil and Indian turpentine oil.

The analgesic and muscle-relaxing effects of menthol are due to the activation of the TRPM8 receptor and the inhibition of certain sodium channels. Stimulation of the so-called cold and menthol receptor TRPM8 is also responsible for the subjective sensation of cold.