Wahhab Khan, December 11, 2025

More than just taste: Why mint is included

Mint in toothpaste or oral care products? Sure, it freshens breath – but is there more to it than that? Here you'll learn why this medicinal plant is so important for your daily dental care and what else it can do besides freshening your breath.
Mehr als nur Geschmack: Warum Minze drin steckt

What's behind it?

Mint is a genus of plants with over 20 species , ranging from peppermint to field mint. Mentha arvensis (field mint) is frequently used in dental care products. Its essential oil contains menthol – the substance that creates the typical cooling sensation on the tongue and gums . Even in demented mints , menthol is still present. oil The product still contains enough menthol . It only needs 20 ppm to produce a refreshing sensation .  Additionally The gentle freshness is enhanced by other ingredients, such as methyl acetate and limonene . supported (Lefingwell, 2009). This touch of freshness not only makes brushing teeth more pleasant, but also unconsciously gives us a feeling of cleanliness (Kamatou et al., 2013). 

Why is it relevant?

The flavor is more than just a nice bonus. Studies show that products with mint flavor are perceived as more beneficial (Dessirier et al., 2025). This can lead to you brushing longer and more thoroughly – a real plus for oral health (Roque et al., 2018). In addition, menthol stimulates saliva production . More saliva means better self-cleaning in the mouth and natural protection against cavities and gum problems (Kamatou et al., 2013). 


Infobox
Menthol tricks the brain : It feels cool because cold receptors are activated – but in reality the temperature remains the same (Lasanen et al., 2016).

Scientific background

Menthol binds to so-called cold receptors (TRPM8) – tiny sensors in the mucous membranes. Your brain interprets the signal as cool, even though the temperature isn't actually dropping (Eccles, 2000). Studies in aroma research show that menthol has a mild antibacterial effect and can inhibit certain germs without disrupting the balance of the oral flora (Bacinska et al., 2025 & Adaszynka-Skwirzynka et al., 2025). This is precisely why modern products like the PeriTrap Microbiome toothpaste based on natural ingredients Mint oils – they provide freshness AND gentle support for the gums. 

Practical tips for everyday life

  • ✓ Pay attention to the ingredients: Mint oil (e.g. “Mentha Arvensis Oil”) stands for natural taste instead of artificial flavors.
  • ✓ Clean mindfully: Let the feeling of freshness motivate you – use it for at least 2–3 minutes. Grooming time (Kumar et al., 2016) . 

At a glance

ⓘ Mint not only refreshes, but also motivates.

ⓘ Menthol stimulates saliva production and mouth protection. 

ⓘ Natural Mint oils gently support the gums.

Sources

  • Adaszyńska-Skwirzyńska M, Zych S, Dzięcioł M, et al. Potential of Essential Oils From Different Mint Species Against Multidrug-Resistant Escherichia Coli Strains Isolated From Clinical Cases in Poultry. International Journal of Molecular Sciences . 2025.

  • Bacińska Z, Strub DJ, Balcerzak L. Antibacterial Potential of Essential Oils Against Oral Pathogenic Bacteria: A Literature and Clinical Review. Journal of Applied Microbiology . 2025.

  • Chowshury S, et al. Menthol Flavor Enhances Vaping Experiences: A Randomized Crossover Clinical Trial. Tobacco Control . 2025. doi:10.1136/tc-2024-059202

  • Dessirier JM, O'Mahony M, Carstens E. Oral Irritant Properties of Menthol: Sensitizing and Desensitizing Effects of Repeated Application and Cross-Desensitization to Nicotine. Physiology & Behavior . 2001.

  • Eccles R. Role of Cold Receptors and Menthol in Thirst, the Drive to Breathe and Arousal. Appetites . 2000.

  • Kamatou GP, Vermaak I, Viljoen AM, Lawrence BM. Menthol: A Simple Monoterpene With Remarkable Biological Properties. Phytochemistry . 2013.

  • Kumar S, Tadakamadla J, Johnson NW. Effect of Toothbrushing Frequency on Incidence and Increment of Dental Caries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of Dental Research . 2016;95(11):1230-6. doi:10.1177/0022034516655315.

  • Lasanen R, Julkunen P, Airaksinen O, Töyräs J. Menthol Concentration in Topical Cold Gel Does Not Have Significant Effect on Skin Cooling. Skin Research and Technology: Official Journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin International Society for Skin Imaging . 2016.

  • Lefingwell JC. Cooling Ingredients and Their Mechanism of Action. In: Handbook of Cosmetic Science and Technology , 3rd Edition, Chapter 65. 2009.

  • Roque J, et al. Understanding Freshness Perception from the Cognitive Mechanisms of Flavor: The Case of Beverages. Frontiers in Psychology . 2018. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2017.02360

  • Taudte N, et al. Effect of a bacterial glutaminyl cyclase inhibitor on multi-species biofilms. Frontiers in Oral Health . 2025;6:1716625. doi:10.3389/froh.2025.1716625 

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