Wintergreen Oil

Wintergreen Oil

Did you know that wintergreen refers to a group of aromatic plants that retain their green colour year-round? These plants are also frequently called "evergreens." Wintergreen oil is extracted from the Gaultheria procumbens evergreen plant, a member of the Ericaceae family and native to North America. It is used in everything from chewing gum to mints and candies. It is also commonly used as a flavouring in mouthwash and toothpaste.

Wintergreen oil comprises roughly 85-99% methyl salicylate, its main bioactive compound. Methyl salicylate is an organic ester naturally produced by wintergreens and has been studied in depth. It has, among other things, been shown to be effective at relieving aches and pains caused by cramps, sprains, strains, and arthritis; speeding healing; and soothing nerve pain, backaches, or pain in the lower spine. 

Aromatically speaking, wintergreen is a top note. It may best be described as warm, savoury, spicy, and sweet, with hints of menthol, mint, sarsaparilla, root beer, and woodiness. It pairs well with other robust scents such as marjoram, oregano, peppermint, spearmint, thyme, and Ylang Ylang.

Benefits of Wintergreen Essential Oil 

• Analgesic – Relieves Pain & Swelling
• Anti-Inflammatory & Anti-Infectious
• Effective & Safe Numbing Agent
• Natural Antibacterial & Antiviral
• Soothes Cold & Flu Symptoms

Therapeutic Properties of Wintergreen Essential Oil

This essential oil can be used either via inhalation, diffusion or blended with a carrier oil and applied topically to the skin to soothe all kinds of aches and pains. As a concentrated source of methyl salicylate, this oil makes an effective analgesic and it's an excellent alternative to commercially-sold pain-relieving drugs since it is both highly effective and safe. In addition, unlike prescription analgesics, wintergreen oil does not come with a whole host of contraindications and potential side effects. 

Using Aromatherapy Oil 

You may be interested to know that natural wintergreen oil is becoming less common due to the mass production of synthetic methyl salicylate. This synthetic form may be listed as wintergreen oil, gaultheria oil, or teaberry oil on labels without the mention of its production or origins. Look for natural wintergreen oil that is 100% pure and extracted from the Gaultheria procumbens wintergreen plant to ensure the highest quality. It's important to note that some essential oils are toxic to pets whether diffused in the home or if they ingest them from licking your skin.