Wintergreen Essential Oil

Wintergreen essential oil is derived from the leaves of a creeping shrub found in coniferous areas. Growing up to six inches in height, Wintergreen contains bright red fruit, has oval leaves, and small, white bell-shaped flowers. The main chemical component in Wintergreen, methyl salicylate, is used in topical joint creams to soothe sore muscles and joints; in fact, Wintergreen and Birch are the only plants in the world that contain methyl salicylate naturally. As a flavoring, Wintergreen is used in candies, toothpaste, and chewing gum. When diffused, Wintergreen promotes healthy respiratory function and its refreshing and cooling aroma evokes clarity, awareness, and concentration.

Wintergreen is steam distillation from leaves.

The properties of Wintergreen:

• Analgesic
• Anti-inflammatory
• Anti-rheumatic
• Antiseptic
• Antispasmodic
• Disinfectant
• Diuretic
• Stimulant (bone)
• Warming

When diffused Wintergreen influences, elevates, opens, and increases awareness in sensory system.

How to apply Wintergreen:

• Topically – Can be applied neat (with no dilution), or dilute 1:1 (1 drop essential oil to 1 drop carrier oil) for children and for those with sensitive skin when using topically. Apply topically on location, and use only small amounts (dilute with fractionated coconut oil for application on larger area).
• Aromatically – Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.

Uses

• Wintergreen has a warming effect when applied to skin and is excellent to use in a massage to relieve sore muscles. A little goes a long way, so use sparingly and dilute with Fractionated Coconut Oil to minimize any skin sensitivity.
• For a soothing bath, add 1–2 drops of Wintergreen essential oil to warm bath water.
• Wintergreen essential oil is not recommended for internal use and should be stored out of reach from children.

Safety precautions using Wintergreen

Avoid during pregnancy. Not for use by people with epilepsy. Some people are very allergic to methyl salicylate. Test a small area of skin first for allergies.