Peppermint candy contains both synthetic and natural menthol.
Menthol is a chemical substance often used in foods, snacks, toothpastes, candies, cigarettes, mouth rinses, ointments and creams. Menthol comes in two forms: natural and synthetic. Natural menthol is derived from peppermint oil and can be purchased in herbal shops or some pharmacies. Synthetic menthol is made in a lab.
Natural Menthol
According to 3dChem.com, naturally occurring menthol is from the peppermint plant or other plants. Peppermint is widely available throughout the United States and often grows in residential areas. Menthol in itself is either translucent or white in color, and feels waxy to the touch. The University of Maryland Medical Center website states that peppermint oil is from the leaves and stems of the peppermint plant.
Synthetic Menthol
Synthetic menthol is derived from "raw materials," as stated on the Leffingwell and Associates website. Thymol, citronella and piperitone (a substance derived from eucalyptus leaves) are often used as the bases to create synthetic menthol. A 2007 study by G. S. Clark and cited in "Menthol -- A Cool Place" shows that while the majority of menthol is derived from natural sources, over six thousand metric tons are derived from synthetic sources.
Menthol Uses
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, both natural and synthetic peppermint is used for a wide variety of medical conditions. Popular gels and creams that ease itching and irritation contain menthol, which creates a pleasant, cooling sensation. Toothpastes and mouthwashes contain menthol as well, as the cooling, minty taste feels clean, while studies suggests that menthol may have antibacterial and antiviral attributes. Menthol flavoring is also used in cigarettes and other tobacco products as the minty and 'smooth' flavor helps lessen the irritation sometimes experienced by those who smoke non-menthol cigarettes. Alternatively, menthol is often featured in gums, candies, foods, and as a flavoring in non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages.
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