Menthol

**Semantic type:** Pharmacologic Substance

**Definition:** An organic compound made synthetically or obtained from peppermint or mint oils with flavoring and local anesthetic properties. When added to pharmaceuticals and foods, menthol functions as a fortifier for peppermint flavors. It also has a counterirritant effect on skin and mucous membranes, thereby producing a local analgesic or anesthetic effect.

**Synonyms:** - MENTHOL, UNSPECIFIED FORM - menthol