About Menthol Terpenes and terpenoid, Antipruritic, decongestant, topical analgesic. Mechanism of Action of Menthol Menthol acts as a local anesthetic on the respiratory passageways and causing cough suppression. When Menthol is rubbed on the skin, it acts as a rubefacient and causes localized vasodilatation- which gives feelings of comfort and warmth. When applied gently on the skin, it acts as an anti-pruritic agent and creates a feeling of coolness, and mild local anaesthetic effect relieves itching. It has good soothing effect and acts as a demulcent. It also acts as a carminative.