Is menthol harmful to the body?

Under normal circumstances, menthol is harmless to the body when used appropriately and consumed in moderate amounts, but it may be harmful when consumed in excess or by sensitive populations. A detailed analysis is as follows:

When menthol is used in food, medicines, and daily necessities according to safety standards, moderate intake or use can have positive effects. Adding small amounts of menthol to food provides a refreshing taste; menthol in medications can relieve throat discomfort and alleviate pain; in skincare products and daily necessities, the cooling sensation from menthol can refresh the mind, relieve fatigue, and soothe the skin. In these cases, the body can normally metabolize menthol without causing harm.

However, excessive intake of menthol may cause adverse reactions. Oral consumption of large amounts of menthol-containing products can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to abdominal pain, diarrhea, and even affect the nervous system, causing dizziness and drowsiness. Individuals with sensitive skin may develop contact dermatitis, such as rashes and itching, when exposed to high concentrations of menthol. Infants and young children, whose bodies are not fully developed, have low tolerance to menthol, and exposure or ingestion may suppress the respiratory center and endanger their health.

When using menthol-containing products, check the ingredients and instructions for use, control the dosage, use cautiously in sensitive populations and infants, and discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance if adverse symptoms occur.