Peppermint oil is obtained through steam distillation of the flowering herb Mentha x piperita L. It appears as a nearly colorless to pale greenish-yellow liquid with a distinctive peppermint aroma. This oil is known for its refreshing, cooling, antibacterial, and anti-irritant effects and is commonly used as a fragrance. However, it can cause allergic reactions such as hay fever, skin rashes, and irritation, particularly when covered by a dressing. Extracted from peppermint leaves, menthol makes up more than 50% of its composition.
Peppermint oil Chemical Properties
| Boiling point | 215 °C(lit.) |
| Density | 0.9 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| FEMA | 2848 | PEPPERMINT OIL |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.461(lit.) |
| Fp | 196 °F |
| Storage temp | 2-8°C |
| Form | Liquid |
| Color | Pale yellow |
| Odor | Mint odour |
| Odor Type | minty |
| Biological source | Mentha piperita L. |
| Optical Rotation | [α]20/D 29°, neat |
| Water Solubility | Insoluble in water |
| Stability | Stable. Combustible. Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents. |
| CAS DataBase Reference | 8006-90-4 |
| EPA Substance Registry System | Oils, peppermint (8006-90-4) |
Safety Information
| Safety Statements | 23-24/25 |
| RIDADR | UN 1993 / PGIII |
| WGK Germany | 2 |
| RTECS | SC6125000 |
| F | 8 |
| Hazardous Substances Data | 8006-90-4(Hazardous Substances Data) |
| Toxicity | LD50 orl-rat: 2426 mg/kg JPMSAE 54,1071,65 |
