Product Introduction
Menthol crystals (also called crystal menthol or mint crystals) are a white, colorless, needle-like crystalline solid. They are extracted from natural mint oils, mainly cornmint (Mentha arvensis), by cooling and recrystallization. They give a strong minty aroma and a clean, lasting cooling sensation.
The active compound is menthol, a cyclic terpene alcohol. Its natural form is L-menthol, the isomer that triggers the cold-sensitive receptors (TRPM8) on skin and in the mouth and throat. This is why menthol feels cool even though it does not lower temperature.
WEHENGFOOD is a professional China menthol crystals supplier, manufacturer and exporter. Our natural menthol crystals have a total menthol content of 99% and are packed in 25kg fiber drums for international shipping. We supply menthol in several forms:
- Menthol crystal (standard): high-purity natural L-menthol, 99%
- Menthol powder: easy to blend into dry mixes and pressed products
- Microcrystalline menthol: fine crystals that dissolve and disperse quickly
- Low-bitter menthol crystal: a smoother, less harsh taste for food and oral care
- L-Menthol and racemic (DL) menthol: natural and synthetic options at different price points
Related cooling products are also available, including WS-3, WS-5, WS-10 and WS-23 cooling agents, L-menthyl lactate, peppermint oil, dementholized peppermint oil, spearmint oil and menthone.
Certificate of Analysis
Test Item | Standard | Analytical Result |
Identification | Colourless, transparent hexagonal or needlelike crystals. | Complies with standard |
Melting Point (°C) | 41-44°C | 41.6°C |
Solubility | 1 g soluble in 5 ml of 90% v/v alcohol, forming a clear solution | Complies with standard |
Specific Rotation (25°C) | -45° to -51° | -49.8° |
Limit of Nonvolatile Residue (%) | Not over 0.05 under condition of 105°C | 0.01 |
Chromatographic Purity | 98.5%-101.0% on the dried basis | 99.25% |
As Content | ≤ 3 ppm | Not detected |
Heavy Metals | ≤ 10 ppm | Not detected |
Residue on Ignition | ≤ 0.1% | 0.03% |
Related Substances | Examine by gas chromatography | Meets the requirement |
Key Functions of Menthol Crystals
- Cooling effect: gives an instant, refreshing cool feel in the mouth, on the throat and on the skin
- Flavor and aroma: adds a clean, sharp peppermint note and lifts the freshness of other flavors
- Taste masking: reduces harsh, bitter or medicinal notes in some formulations
- Mild topical effect: a traditional ingredient in balms, rubs and topical products for a cooling feel
- Respiratory comfort: the vapor gives a fresh, “open” feeling, which is why menthol appears in lozenges, rubs and menthol crystals for inhalation products
Menthol Crystals Uses and Applications
- Food and confectionery: chewing gum, hard candy, mints, lozenges, chocolate, ice cream and beverages
- Oral care: toothpaste, mouthwash, breath strips and dental products
- Pharmaceutical and health products: cough drops, throat lozenges, vapor rubs, balms, patches, menthol crystals for sinus and steam inhalation products
- Personal care and cosmetics: shampoo, lotion, shaving products, lip balm, after-sun and foot-care products
- Tobacco and flavor industry: menthol flavoring and cooling flavor compounding
- Aromatherapy and household: blends with eucalyptus, camphor and mint oils for fresh-scent products
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FAQ
Q1: What are menthol crystals and what are they made from?
Menthol crystals (also called crystal menthol or mint crystals) are a white, needle-like crystalline solid with a strong minty smell and a lasting cooling effect. Natural menthol crystals are extracted from mint oil, mainly cornmint (Mentha arvensis), by cooling and recrystallization. Our grade is L-menthol with total menthol ≥ 99%.
Q2: What are menthol crystals used for?
Common menthol crystals uses include chewing gum, candy, toothpaste, mouthwash, cough drops, balms, vapor rubs, cosmetics, aromatherapy blends and tobacco flavoring.
Q3: How do I use menthol crystals in a formula, and are there safety precautions?
Menthol crystals dissolve well in ethanol, oils and fats, but only slightly in water. Dissolve them in alcohol or warm oil first, then add to your base. Dosage depends on the product type and local regulations, so please run your own trials. Menthol is a raw ingredient, not a finished medicine. Concentrated menthol can irritate skin, eyes and airways, so follow recommended use levels, and take extra care with products for infants and young children, including menthol crystals for inhalation or sinus products.
Q4: What is the difference between menthol crystals, menthol powder, and natural vs. synthetic menthol?
Menthol crystals, menthol powder and microcrystalline menthol are the same material in different forms. Crystals are the standard needle shape, while powder dissolves and blends faster. Purity is 99% in all cases. The other difference is the source: natural L-menthol comes from mint plants and gives the classic cooling effect, while racemic DL-menthol is synthetic and usually lower in menthol crystals price. We supply both, plus a low-bitter grade for food and oral care.
Q5: What are the packaging, storage and shelf life of menthol crystals?
The standard packaging is a 25kg fiber drum. Menthol sublimes slowly at room temperature, so keep the drum tightly sealed in a cool, dry place away from heat and strong light. Under these conditions the shelf life is 3 years.
Q6: Are you a China supplier of menthol crystals, and what is the MOQ?
Yes. WEHENGFOOD is a China menthol crystals supplier, manufacturer and exporter that ships worldwide. Our minimum order quantity is 100 kg, with flexible grades and packing available.
