* The Chemistry of Menthol


Molecular formula of menthol

Menthol molecular formula — C 10 H 20  

 

Structural formula of menthol

                                                          

 

 

 

Functional group of menthol

 

In the natural compound, the isopropyl group is in the trans orientation to both the methyl and hydroxyl groups.

 

 

 

 

 

 

chemical information about menthol:

 

A monocyclic, saturated, secondary terpene alcohol with the formula below. Menthol contains three asymmetric carbon atoms (starred in the formula). It can exist in four

externally compensated and eight optically active forms. The only forms encountered in nature are the L-menthol and D-neo-menthol. Commercial l-menthol is isolated principally from the oil of Mentha arvensis. It possesses a distinct peppermint flavor and gives the impression of cooling the mouth and skin.