wintergreen oil, winter green oil, gaultheria oil

Wintergreen oil is obtained from is a group of plants commonly known as they remain green through the winter. It is generally extracted from the species of Gaultheria. The major component is an ester Methyl Salicylate ( about 98%), which is found to protect the plants from insects. Other components includes α - pinene, myrcene, delta -3 -carene, limonene, 3,7 - guaiadiene and delta -cadinene. Methyl salicylate is used as a rubifacient ( Counterirritant) in deep heating liniments flavoring agent and fragrance in small amounts. It can cause stomach and kidney problems in higher quantities. The oil is used topically (diluted) or in aromatherapy for muscle and joint discomfort, arthritis, cellulite, obesity, edema, poor circulation, heart diseases, hypertension, rheumatism, tendentious, cramps, inflammation, eczema, hair care, psoriasis, gout, ulcers, broken or bruised bones. It is also used in some perfumery applications and as a flavoring agent, toothpaste, chewing gum and soft drinks.

Technical Details

Product name:Wintergreen oil

Botanical Name: Gaultheria procumbens

Family: Ericaceae

Part Used: Aerial parts

Origin: China

Mode of Extraction: Steam Distillation

Main Constituents: alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, methyl salicylate

Description: Clear Transparent Liquid

Appearence: Colourless to pale yellow liquid

Specific Gravity: at 20C 1.120-1.280

Organoleptic properties: Characteristic wintergreen odour

Solubility: Insoluble in water, miscible with other oils and organic solvents