Common Name:

Japanese Mint

Botanical Name:

Mentha arvensis L.

Source:

Cultivated

Introduction / Varity of plant / Method of extraction / Distilled organ:

This oil is obtained by steam distillation of the aerial part of Mentha arvensis L.

1. Organoleptic Properties

Appearance

Slightly thick liquid.

Color

Pale yellow.

Aroma

Strong, fresh and somewhat bitter-sweet.

2. Physico-chemical Properties

Specific gravity

0.8940 to 0.9015 at 25º C

Optical rotation

[-] 15.5º to [-] 45.0º at 25º C

Refractive index

1.4590 to 1.4750 at 25º C

Acid number

0.3 to 5

Ester number

210 to 255

Ester number after acetylation

70-88%

Solubility

Soluble in 1.2 to 2.5 vol. of 70% alcohol.

3. Uses

(a) In the isolation of menthol crystals, in flavoring toothpastes, mouthwashes and pharmaceuticals

(b) Medicinal & Aromatherapy use: Oil is good for the nervous system, acting as a regulator and sedative: Menthol is well known as a cardiac tonic in pharmaceutical preparations. It is a good blood cleanser. Because it is antiseptic and anti-bacterial, it can be used in swollen gums, mouth wash or mouth ulcers, toothache.