commercial process is the Haarmann–Reimer process (after the company Haarmann & Reimer, now part of Symrise) This process starts from m-cresol which is alkylated with propene to thymol. This compound is hydrogenated in the next step. Racemic menthol is isolated by fractional distillation. The enantiomers are separated by chiral resolution in reaction with methyl benzoate, selective crystallisation followed by hydrolysis. Racemic menthol can also be formed by hydrogenation of thymol, menthone, or pulegone. In both cases with further processing (crystallizative entrainment resolution of the menthyl benzoate conglomerate) it is possible to concentrate the L-enantiomer, however this tends to be less efficient, although the higher processing costs may be offset by lower raw material costs. A further advantage of this process is that D-menthol becomes inexpensively available for use as a chiral auxiliary, along with the more usual L-antipode. Applications Menthol is included in many products, and for a variety of reasons. These include: In nonprescription products for short-term relief of minor sore throat and minor mouth or throat irritation. Examples: lip balms and cough medicines. As an antipruritic to reduce itching. As a topical analgesic, it is used to relieve minor aches and pains, such as muscle cramps, sprains, headaches and similar conditions, alone or combined with chemicals such as camphor, eucalyptus oil or capsaicin. In Europe, it tends to appear as a gel or a cream, while in the U.S., patches and body sleeves are very frequently used. Examples: Tiger Balm, or IcyHot patches or knee/elbow sleeves. As a penetration enhancer in transdermal drug delivery. In decongestants for chest and sinuses (cream, patch or nose inhaler). Examples: Vicks VapoRub, Mentholatum, Axe Brand, VapoRem, Mentisan. In certain medications used to treat sunburns, as it provides a cooling sensation (then often associated with aloe). In aftershave products to relieve razor burn. As a smoking tobacco additive in some cigarette brands, for flavor, and to reduce throat and sinus irritation caused by smoking. Menthol also increases nicotine receptor density, increasing the addictive potential of tobacco products. Commonly used in oral hygiene products and bad-breath remedies, such as mouthwash, toothpaste, mouth and tongue sprays, and more generally as a food flavor agent; such as in chewing gum and candy. As a pesticide against tracheal mites of honey bees. In perfumery, menthol is used to prepare menthyl esters to emphasize floral notes (especially rose). In first aid products such as "mineral ice" to produce