Mint contains molecules like menthol that stimulate the cold receptors in the mouth, sending a message of freshness to the brain.
In mint leaves, it is mainly a substance called menthol that does all the work. Menthol is an organic molecule belonging to the family of terpenic alcohols: basically, it exists naturally in certain plants, notably peppermint. This compound resembles small transparent crystals. Its secret: it manages to "trick" your brain by activating the same receptors as those stimulated by cold. Despite this, it doesn't actually cool your mouth: it's just a sensory illusion. The cooling effect comes solely from its chemical interaction with your body, not from a real decrease in temperature.
When you consume mint, the menthol it contains binds to specific receptors in your mouth called TRPM8. Normally, these receptors respond to cold, for example when you eat ice cream. But this molecule tricks them. It directly activates these receptors, even in the absence of a real drop in temperature. As a result, your brain interprets the information as cold, triggering that strange refreshing sensation while the actual temperature remains unchanged. It's a kind of little sensory illusion that menthol creates by "hacking" your taste receptors!
When menthol activates the cold sensory receptors, the information is transformed into a small electrical signal that quickly travels to the brain through specialized nerve fibers. Once up there, it's the brain, specifically a region called the somatosensory cortex, that receives and interprets these electrical signals. And since it is accustomed to associating these signals from the cold receptors with something cool, bam, it instantly creates that sensation of freshness in the mouth. Basically, your brain is just being tricked by menthol and translates that into a cool sensation, even though your mouth's temperature remains exactly the same!
The sensation of freshness associated with mint does not solely depend on the molecule itself, but also on our mental expectations. Your brain naturally associates the aroma of mint with experiences already lived, such as tooth brushing or chewing gum, often linked to cleanliness and hygiene. When you drink a mint-flavored beverage, your brain anticipates the freshness even before the receptors are activated. This psychological expectation amplifies the actual sensation in the mouth. We even talk about sensory conditioning: if throughout your life you had been told that mint was hot, perhaps you would feel a completely different sensation!
Menthol is not the only compound that provides this typical sensation of freshness. Other natural molecules like eucalyptol, found in eucalyptus, or cineole, which is chemically similar, produce a similar feeling. Some synthetic substances also play the same sensory trick: such as WS-3 and WS-23, used particularly in chewing gums or toothpastes to enhance their freshness. Even camphor, though different in taste, slightly activates the same receptors responsible for the feeling of cold. All these compounds have a somewhat different way of stimulating your senses, but the result is comparable: a pleasant (often illusory!) sensation of freshness in the mouth.
Peppermint, Mentha piperita, is a hybrid plant that naturally results from the crossing of water mint (Mentha aquatica) and spearmint (Mentha spicata).
The sensation of freshness caused by mint does not actually change the temperature in the mouth. It simply results from the activation of cold sensory receptors by the menthol molecule, thereby tricking our brain.
Some studies show that the smell and flavor of mint could temporarily improve mental concentration and reduce cognitive fatigue during repetitive tasks.
In addition to its refreshing properties, menthol also has a mild antibacterial action, which explains why it is often used as an ingredient in toothpastes and oral hygiene products.
When mint is consumed, the cold-sensitive receptors in the mouth become more responsive. Cold water then immediately enhances the activation of these receptors, thus amplifying the perception of freshness.
Yes, certain foods, particularly those containing capsaicin such as chili peppers or pepper, activate heat-sensitive receptors. This explains why these foods provide a sensation of warmth, even burning, despite the actual temperature not being higher.
No, mint doesn't actually reduce the temperature in the mouth. It contains menthol, a molecule that activates sensory receptors normally triggered by cold, which only creates a sensation of coolness.
Yes, several substances, such as eucalyptol (found in eucalyptus) and camphor, create similar sensations of coolness by activating the same sensory receptors as menthol.
Menthol used in small quantities is safe for the majority of individuals. However, in large amounts, it may cause irritation or digestive issues. It is advisable to adhere to the recommended doses in food and medicinal products.
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