Wintergreen - Gaultheria procumbens - USA

Family: Ericaceae

Country of Origin: USA

Extraction: Steam distilled from leaves

Volatility: Top note

Colour: Colourless

Aroma: Fresh, crisp, sweet, minty

Noted Constituents

Ester: methyl salicylate (97 %)

Cautions / Safety Data

Avoid use during pregnancy. Avoid use with epilepsy. Do not use on the skin full strength. Always dilute in appropriate carriers before use.  Not for internal use. Do not ingest.  If suffering from serious medical conditions, consult a qualified health professional, experienced in the use of essential oils.

Recipe Suggestion

In the winter, use peppermint, eucalyptus and wintergreen oil to bust open the claustrophobia of a closed house and chase away those airborne microbes that leave us feeling ill. Dissolve 10 drops of any combination of these oils with 15 ml (1/2 oz) glycerin or denatured alcohol, then add to a cup of water.  Pour into a spray bottle to freshen every room in your house.

Disclaimer

Essential oils are not meant to be a replacement for traditional medical treatment of diseases and conditions. When in doubt, please consult a physician.

Image credit: Photo of Wintergreen plant by Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova. Licensed under CC Attribution Share-Alike International 4.0. This image has been edited / remixed.