The effect of menthol in nasal resistance to air flow

Abstract

Total nasal resistance to airflow was measured in 37 subjects [humans] before and after 5 min exposure to menthol vapor. Menthol inhalation had no consistent effect on nasal resistance but the majority of subjects reported an increased sensation of nasal airflow and a cooling effect of menthol. The results indicate that menthol stimulates cold receptors in the nasal mucosa to create an increased sensation of airflow. No evidence was found in support of any nasal decongestant action for menthol.