Why do we feel cold when using mint-flavored toothpaste?
Brain deception
“Menthol,” a natural compound extracted from mint, is responsible for the sensation of coldness in toothpaste.
“Menthol” activates “TRPM8” receptors located in the nerve endings in the mouth, which are the same receptors responsible for the sensation of cold. Therefore, “menthol” deceives the brain to make you feel cold, just as chili peppers deceive the brain to make you feel hot.
“Menthol” works by binding to “TRPM8” receptors and changing their shape, allowing calcium to enter and stimulating a signal to the brain that is interpreted as a sensation of cold.
When you drink water or inhale air with “menthol” in your mouth, the “menthol” spreads throughout the body, activating more receptors and increasing its effect.
The receptors become more sensitive to cold, so any relatively cold liquid or air will feel colder than it actually is.
Why is “menthol” used in so many products?
Companies take advantage of this property in “menthol” to add a new dimension to the flavor and texture of their products.
“Menthol” is added to toothpaste and chewing gum to give a feeling of freshness and coolness that suggests cleanliness, and it is also added to cough drops to give a feeling of open airways. “Menthol” does not actually cause congestion, but rather enhances the sensitivity of the airways and gives a feeling of coldness, which suggests that more air is passing through.
“Menthol” can also cool the skin through the same sensory receptors. Therefore, it is commonly added to topical creams designed to relieve pain.
The cooling sensation caused by “menthol” can act as an anti-irritant, as it activates pain receptors in the skin causing irritation, then reduces their sensitivity, reducing the underlying pain.
Studies have shown that topical “menthol” may be an effective treatment for muscle pain, nerve pain resulting from cancer treatment, and migraines.
