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Mentha Arvensis
Local Name: Pudinaa
Botanical Name: Mentha arvensis Linn
Family: Labiatae
Description
A perennial herb, 60 cm high. Leaves simple, opposite, short stalked, oblong, 2.5-5 cm long, obtusely or acutely serrated. Flowers small, lilac in axillary whorls. Fruits nutlets, smooth.
Flowering and fruiting: June-August
Parts used: Leaves
Distribution: Cultivated throughout plain area of Nepal.
Method of Extraction: Steam Distillation
| Specification of Mentha Arvensis |
| 1. Organoleptic Properties |
| Appearance |
Slightly thick liquid. |
| Color |
Pale yellow. |
| Aroma |
Strong, fresh and somewhat bitter-sweet. |
| 2. Physico-chemical Properties |
| Specific gravity |
0.8940 to 0.9015 at 25° C |
| Optical rotation |
(-) 15.5 to (-) 45 at 25C |
| Refractive index |
1.4590 to 1.4750 at 25° C |
| Acid number |
0.3 to 5 |
| Ester number |
3 to 15 |
| Ester number after acetylation |
210 to 255 |
| Total alcohol |
70 to 88 % ( Total menthol content |
| Solubility |
Soluble in 1.2 to 2.5 vol. of 70% alcohol |
3. Chemical constituent
It contains Menthol and menthone |
4. Uses:
- Dried plant is aromatic, antispasmodic, carminative, stomachic, refrigerant, stimulant, emmenogogue and diuretic.
- In the isolation of menthol crystals, in flavoring toothpastes, mouthwashes and pharmaceuticals
- Medicinal & Aromatherapy use:Oil is good for the nervous system, acting as a regulator and sedative: Menthol is well known as a cardiac tonic in pharmaceutical preparations. It is a good blood cleanser. Because it is antiseptic and anti-bacterial, it can be used in swollen gums, mouth wash or mouth ulcers, toothache.
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