DL-Menthol (CAS 89-78-1) is a synthetically produced racemic mixture containing equal parts of (1R,2S,5R)- and (1S,2R,5S)-menthol, utilized primarily as a functional cooling agent and flavor enhancer in oral care products, pharmaceuticals, and industrial fragrances. This crystalline Racemic Menthol solid functions by chemically stimulating cold receptors (TRPM8) to produce a cooling sensation, serving as a cost-effective, thermally stable alternative to natural L-Menthol extraction in large-scale manufacturing. As a chemically pure p-Menthan-3-ol derivative, it acts as a versatile Hexahydrothymol component in the formulation of toothpaste, chewing gum, and topical analgesics where consistent sensory modulation is required. We provide this fine chemical with competitive factory pricing to support global compounding operations and guarantee bulk supply availability for high-volume requirements. Our production facility accommodates customized specifications for crystal size and melting point, while every shipment is fully documented with MSDS, TDS, COA files to meet safety and quality standards.
DL-Menthol CAS 89-78-1
- CAS: 89-78-1
- Synonyms: Racemic Menthol, dl-Menthol, p-Menthan-3-ol, Hexahydrothymol, (±)-Menthol
- Einecs: 201-939-0
- Molecular Formula: C₁₀H₂₀O
- Grade: Industrial / Food / Pharmaceutical grade available (customizable)
- Package: 25 kg fiber drum, 180–200 kg drum, or customized packing
Product Description
DL-Menthol (also called racemic menthol or (±)-menthol) is a synthetic mixture of equal parts of D- and L-menthol stereoisomers. It delivers a strong cooling sensation and characteristic peppermint-like aroma, making it a widely used ingredient in flavors, fragrances, personal care, pharmaceuticals, and industrial formulations.
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Physicochemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Colorless to white crystalline solid; characteristic mint odor |
| Melting Point | 34–36 °C |
| Boiling Point | 212–216 °C (at 760 mmHg) |
| Density | ~0.89 g/mL (25 °C) |
| Vapor Pressure | ~0.8 mmHg (20 °C) |
| Flash Point | ~93 °C |
| Solubility | Very soluble in ethanol, ether, chloroform, acetone; slightly soluble in water |
Applications
DL-Menthol is used where cooling, freshness, or mint aroma is needed:
- Flavors & Food Additives
Confectionery, chewing gum, beverages, bakery flavor systems, and aroma enhancers. - Fragrances & Personal Care
Toothpaste, mouthwash, shampoo, soaps, shower gels, deodorants, shaving products, and perfumes. - Pharmaceutical & Health Products
Topical analgesic balms, cough drops, nasal inhalers, antipruritic creams, and cooling gels. - Tobacco & Oral Products
Cigarettes, heated tobacco, and nicotine pouch flavor/cooling systems. - Industrial / Functional Formulations
Household fresheners, aromatherapy blends, and as an intermediate in chemical synthesis.
Storage Conditions
- Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
- Keep container tightly sealed to prevent sublimation and odor loss.
- Recommended storage temperature: room temperature (≤25 °C).
- Avoid proximity to strong oxidizing agents.
Safety Precautions
- Combustible solid; keep away from open flames and high heat.
- May cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation in concentrated form.
- Use protective measures during handling:
- Safety goggles / face protection
- Chemical-resistant gloves
- Dust mask or respirator if powder becomes airborne
- In case of contact:
- Skin: wash with soap and water
- Eyes: rinse cautiously with water for several minutes
- Inhalation: move to fresh air
- Follow local regulations for transport and industrial use.
FAQ - Technical & Supply Chain
-
Q:
What is DL-Menthol CAS 89-78-1?
A: DL-Menthol is the synthetic racemic mixture of D- and L-menthol. CAS 89-78-1 identifies this racemic grade, with molecular formula C10H20O and a molecular weight of 156.27 g/mol. -
Q:
What are the main uses of DL-Menthol?
A: DL-Menthol is used in flavors, oral care, personal care and pharmaceutical products. Common examples include chewing gum, toothpaste, mouthwash, lotions, topical analgesics, cough drops and mint-flavored industrial or tobacco products. -
Q:
How is DL-Menthol different from natural L-menthol?
A: DL-Menthol is a racemic mixture and has an optical rotation near zero, while natural L-menthol is the optically active isomer. Both provide cooling and mint character, but DL-menthol is a consistent synthetic option for cost-sensitive formulations. -
Q:
Which DL-Menthol grade should I choose for food, pharmaceutical or industrial use?
A: Confirm the required assay, melting range, optical rotation and residual terpene profile. Food and pharmaceutical formulations typically need USP/FCC-compliant material, while industrial fragrance or tobacco applications may accept a broader technical grade. -
Q:
How should DL-Menthol be stored to prevent melting or degradation?
A: Store DL-Menthol in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, ventilated area protected from light. Its melting point is about 34-36 deg C, so avoid sustained heat above 30 deg C and keep it away from strong oxidizers.
Ordering & Documentation
Key information for document requests, quotations, and supply planning.
Documents
COA, TDS, SDS/MSDS and packing details are available on request.
Quotation
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Sample & Supply
Support is available for samples, trial orders, bulk and repeat supply.
Storage & Shipping
Product-specific conditions are confirmed before order.
