Description
Wintergreen is an evergreen shrub with white bell-shaped flowers and leathery, oval, slightly toothed leaves. Both its leaves and red, berry-like fruit are edible. The essential oil is obtained by steam distillation of the leaves of the plant following maceration in warm water.
Native Americans used the leaves to help treat respiratory tract infections. They also chewed the leaves to increase endurance and helping them to run long distances.
Between 85 % to 98 % of Wintergreen essential oil is methyl salicylate which is used in pain relieving ointments to soothe sore muscles and joints; in fact, Wintergreen and Birch are the only plants in the world that contain methyl salicylate naturally. Birch essential oil’s chemical makeup is nearly identical to wintergreen’s and can therefore be used interchangeably.
Methyl salicylate is beneficial to the body’s ability to manage pain and inflammation. It is said to have cortisone-like effects that can help relieve pain quickly. Once you apply it on the affected area, it gets absorbed by your skin rapidly. Wintergreen’s high concentration of methyl salicylate make it extremely analgesic, antispasmodic, and anti-inflammatory. It is mainly used for rheumatism, arthritis, sore muscles, sciatica, tendonitis and cramps. It also alleviates headaches and bone pain.
When diffused or vaporized, Wintergreen promotes healthy respiratory function and its refreshing and cooling aroma evokes clarity, awareness, and concentration. It helps prevent infections – Wintergreen oil can be fatal to bacteria, protozoa and fungi.
It is relaxing and uplifts your mood. It is mentally stimulating and increases the vibration of your body.
The oil should only be used topically in very low dilution mixed in a carrier oil.
USE EXTREME CAUTION: Never use Wintergreen internally!! In pure form, methyl salicylate is harmful, when taken orally. A single teaspoon of methyl salicylate (5 mg) is equivalent to almost twenty 300 mg aspirin tablets. Ingesting as little as 4 ml has been known to be fatal. Do not use wintergreen essential oil topically in excessive amounts. Avoid use on pregnant women, children or broken skin.
These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. The information presented here is for educational purposes of traditional uses. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
