About Methyl salicylate Salicylates, Rubefacient, counterirritant. Mechanism of Action of Methyl salicylate Methyl salicylate is a rubefacient. It produces reddening of the skin by dilatation of the blood vessel and gives a soothing feeling of warmth. It is also called as counterirritant because they produce their action by counter irritation. Irritation of the sensory nerve endings alters pain in the underlying muscle or joints that are served by the same nerves. Menthol 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.