Medicine
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What are the Different Types of Menthol Ointment?

M. J. Memon
M. J. Memon

There are a number of types of menthol ointment. Menthol is a product that is derived from mint oil or made synthetically. It has various medicinal properties that make it a useful component of ointments.

One of the most popular uses of menthol is in analgesic creams or gels used to treat pain from arthritis or other conditions. The menthol ointment is rubbed on the area of the body that is experiencing pain. Individuals often target muscle aches and strains with this type of ointment. It is important that individuals avoid using a heating pad on the areas that have menthol ointment applied, as serious complications can result. The ointment should also never be applied to damaged or cut skin.

Menthol ointments are often used to treat joint or muscle pain.
Menthol ointments are often used to treat joint or muscle pain.

Another type of menthol ointment is decongestant ointment. Traditionally, the ointment is usually rubbed onto the chest or under the nose. This gives the feeling of clearing the nasal passages without actually doing so and allows for easier breathing. It is now believed that menthol decongestant ointment should not be used on children, especially toddlers, as it can cause complications such as respiratory infection. Adults are also now advised against applying the ointment under the nose.

Menthol ointment can help with a windburn.
Menthol ointment can help with a windburn.

Menthol is also used in ointments to relieve itching skin and shampoos to ease discomfort from dry scalp and dandruff. Another use of menthol is in shaving creams. The menthol provides a pleasant cooling sensation, which makes it easier to tolerate shaving.

Individuals may also apply menthol ointment to chapped lips, cold sores or severely dry skin. Those who participate in winter sports or spend a lot of time in the sun during summer may use it for windburn or sunburn. Those injured by insect bites or bee stings may also find relief by applying the ointment to the affected area.

Menthol ointment can help with chapped lips.
Menthol ointment can help with chapped lips.

Sometimes menthol ointment is delivered through a patch or sleeve rather than directly rubbed on the affected body part. The patch or sleeve has the advantage of administering the medication over a period of time. For large areas of the skin, it may also be easier and more convenient to use a sleeve than to rub on the ointment. As with the ointment, the patch or sleeve should always be applied to clean, dry skin that has no wounds.

Menthol ointment can be used on cold sores.
Menthol ointment can be used on cold sores.

Frequently, menthol ointment contains complementary ingredients such as capsaicin or camphor. Capsaicin is often combined with menthol to make anti-itching or analgesic ointment. Camphor may be added to menthol decongestant ointment since camphor has decongestant properties.

Discussion Comments

SalmonRiver

I did not know it was no longer advised to use menthol ointments on young children. I will definitely not be using it anymore, and will pass the information on to my friends.

I remember those commercials about how soothing a parent’s touch was with menthol ointment, especially the Vicks rub. I’m glad I know better now. I guess I will have to stick to using the Vicks Vapo Rub in the humidifier I have that is made especially for that.

Charmagne

I spent some time working in a health care setting. Without going in to too much detail, my coworkers and I sometimes found ourselves in situations where smells became overwhelming. Mentholatum ointment is an underrated tool in this area.

We would discreetly use some Mentholatum ointment under our noses and it would become the predominant scent. It wasn’t foolproof, but it really made a difference.

I actually used this trick a couple of times during my pregnancy as well, when different smells would make me feel very sick.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Menthol ointments are often used to treat joint or muscle pain.
      By: Tinga
      Menthol ointments are often used to treat joint or muscle pain.
    • Menthol ointment can help with a windburn.
      By: soupstock
      Menthol ointment can help with a windburn.
    • Menthol ointment can help with chapped lips.
      By: Eric Fahrner
      Menthol ointment can help with chapped lips.
    • Menthol ointment can be used on cold sores.
      By: uwimages
      Menthol ointment can be used on cold sores.
    • Menthol may help ease the discomfort of dandruff.
      By: roblan
      Menthol may help ease the discomfort of dandruff.
    • Menthol ointment may offer relief from bee stings.
      By: Alekss
      Menthol ointment may offer relief from bee stings.