How do you take Menthol?

For gels and balms, apply a small amount to the painful or affected area and rub in gently. You can use it 2 to 3 times a day as needed. Do not cover the area tightly with a bandage after applying. For lozenges, dissolve one slowly in the mouth every 2 to 3 hours for sore throat or blocked nose. Do not swallow menthol products, as they are for external use or dissolving in the mouth only.

What are the side effects of Menthol?

A cooling or tingling sensation on the skin, mild skin redness where applied, slight burning feeling that goes away quickly, skin dryness with repeated use

Who should not take Menthol?

People who are allergic to menthol or peppermint, babies and children under 2 years old (especially not near the face or nose), people with broken skin or open wounds in the area to be treated, and people with asthma should use with caution as strong menthol fumes may trigger breathing problems.

OTC

Topical analgesic (pain reliever applied on the skin) and counter-irritant

Menthol

Q: What is Menthol used for?

Muscle pain, joint pain, body pain, headache (when rubbed on the forehead), blocked nose and cold symptoms, mild itching, insect bites, minor skin irritation

Last reviewed July 2026

Who is this for?

For adults (18+). Standard adult dosing applies: see the How to Take tab for full instructions.

What is this drug?

Menthol is a natural substance gotten from peppermint oil that works by creating a cooling sensation on the skin, which helps to relieve pain, itching, and minor irritation in the area where it is applied.

How it works

Activates TRPM8 (transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily M member 8) and TRPA1 cold-sensitive receptors on sensory nerve endings, producing a cooling sensation that masks pain perception and provides counter-irritant effects. Additionally, the increased blood flow from local vasodilation reduces muscle tension and alleviates nasal congestion through desensitization of irritant receptors.

What is it used for?

Muscle painjoint painbody painheadache (when rubbed on the forehead)blocked nose and cold symptomsmild itchinginsect bitesminor skin irritation

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Pain Relief Headache & Migraine Cough & Cold Arthritis & Joint Pain Sinus & Nasal Muscle Cramps & Spasms Chickenpox & Shingles Topical Pain Relief

Available Over The Counter

Get this from any pharmacy or chemist: no prescription needed.

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What to watch out for

Always buy your menthol products like Polarice Gel or Priya Menthol Gel from reputable pharmacies, not from roadside vendors where storage conditions may have damaged the product. Never apply menthol near your eyes, inside your nose, or on private parts. If pain persists after several days of use, see a doctor rather than continuing to self-treat.

Common Side Effects

A cooling or tingling sensation on the skin
mild skin redness where applied
slight burning feeling that goes away quickly
skin dryness with repeated use

Serious Side Effects

Severe skin rash
blistering
or swelling at the area of application: stop use and see a doctor immediately. Difficulty breathing or swallowing after use
especially in young children: this is an emergency
go to the hospital right away.

Drug Interactions

Do not apply menthol products at the same time as other medicated creams, rubs, or heat patches on the same area, as this can cause serious skin irritation or burns. If you are using blood-thinning medications like warfarin, consult your doctor before regular use, as menthol may slightly affect how the drug works.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Menthol is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding when used in small amounts on the skin, but it is best to consult your doctor before using it, especially in the first trimester.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to menthol or peppermint
babies and children under 2 years old (especially not near the face or nose)
people with broken skin or open wounds in the area to be treated
and people with asthma should use with caution as strong menthol fumes may trigger breathing problems.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat, as Nigerian weather can melt balms and affect gels. Keep the container tightly closed. Always keep out of reach of children, as swallowing menthol products can be dangerous.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.