Factory Supply High Purity DL-Menthol CAS 1490-04-6

I. Overview

1. Chemical Properties
   • Molecular Formula & Structure: DL-Menthol has the molecular formula C₁₀H₂₀O and a molecular weight of 156.27. Its chemical name is (±)-3-p-Menthanol or (±)-Menthol, comprising equal amounts of D- and L-enantiomers.
   • Physical State: Appears as colorless needle-like or prismatic crystals, or white crystalline powder, with a characteristic strong minty odor and a cooling sensation (initial warmth followed by refreshing coolness).
   • Solubility: Readily soluble in ethanol, chloroform, ether, glacial acetic acid, liquid paraffin, petroleum ether, and animal/vegetable oils; slightly soluble in water.
   • Stability: Stable at room temperature but requires light-proof, airtight storage in a cool place to prevent oxidation and decomposition.
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2. Sources and Preparation
   • Natural Extraction: Primarily derived from fresh stems and leaves of mint plants (Mentha haplocalyx Briq.) via steam distillation, freezing, and recrystallization.
   • Chemical Synthesis: Synthesized from citral through catalytic hydrogenation and cyclization to produce racemic menthol (DL-Menthol).
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3. Safety and Toxicity
   • Safety: Widely used in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics with high safety; excessive intake may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
   • Toxicity Data: LD₅₀ (oral, rats) >5000 mg/kg, classified as low toxicity.

II. Applications

1. Food Industry
   • Flavor Enhancer: Used as a cooling agent and flavor corrector in confectionery (e.g., mint candies), chewing gum, beverages, ice cream, baked goods, etc., enhancing the refreshing taste and aroma.
   • Usage Limits:
     • Chewing gum: ≤1100 mg/kg
     • Confectionery: ≤400 mg/kg
     • Baked goods: ≤130 mg/kg
     • Ice cream: ≤68 mg/kg
     • Soft drinks: ≤35 mg/kg
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2. Pharmaceuticals
   • Topical Applications: Provides cooling, antipruritic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects for skin itching, insect bites, and muscle pain.
   • Oral Formulations: Acts as a carminative to relieve headaches, rhinitis, pharyngitis, and other symptoms.
   • Compound Preparations: Commonly found in cooling ointments, analgesics, cough syrups, mouthwashes, and oral sprays.
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3. Cosmetics and Personal Care
   • Fragrance Ingredient: Used in toothpaste, perfumes, shampoos, aftershaves, body powders, etc., imparting a refreshing minty scent.
   • Skincare Products: Added to floral waters, antipruritic creams, and after-sun lotions for soothing and anti-inflammatory effects.
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4. Tobacco Industry
   • Cigarette Additive: Improves tobacco taste by adding a cooling sensation, reducing irritation, and enhancing sensory appeal.
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5. Other Industrial Applications
   • Plastics and Rubber: Used as an additive to confer specific odors or improve processability.
   • Pesticides and Insecticides: Leverages its volatility and irritancy as a repellent or synergist.