Isopulegol, notable for its potent minty aroma, is found in the essential oils of a variety of plants including lemongrass, lemon balm, geranium, and eucalyptus. Menthofuran (as it is found in the peppermint plant) and the sweetener hernandulcin (which is found mainly in the plant Lippia dulcis) can also be produced from isopulegol.

Isopulegol is a chemical precursor for menthol and is produced by freezing peppermint oil. This process¹ is used commercially to supplement the natural sources of menthol. Because of its cooling, minty properties, isopulegol is a common additive in cosmetics, soaps, and other scented personal care products. Isopulegol is also used in medicinal preparations. 

Further studies are necessary to discover the extent of isopulegol’s health benefits, but research has shown promising links between isopulegol and anti-inflammatory, anti-seizure, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and gastroprotective² effects.

Lemon balm, of which isopulegol is a significant component, contains notable inflammation-fighting properties.³ The antiviral properties of isopulegol could be highly effective against the H1N1 and H1N2 strains of the influenza virus, especially during the virus’s early stages.⁴ Isopulegol’s ability to affect the GABA system and its antioxidants is linked to a reduction in seizures.⁵

The Kosher Tangie strain of cannabis has higher-than-average levels of isopulegol.