Wintergreen essential oil is obtained by steam distillation of the leaves of the plant following maceration in warm water. Methyl salicylate, the main chemical constituent of the oil, is not present in the plant until formed by enzymatic action from a glycoside within the leaves as they are macerated in warm water.

Wintergreen oil is a pale yellow or pinkish fluid liquid that is strongly aromatic with a sweet woody odor (components: methyl salicylate (approx. 98%), a-pinene, myrcene, delta-3-carene, limonene, 3,7-guaiadiene, delta-cadinene) that gives such plants a distinctive "medicinal" smell whenever bruised.
Wintergreen contains powerful beneficial compounds like the analgesic methyl salicylate, which relieves moderate levels of pain, and volatile oils that act as antiseptics and bactericides. Because of the concentration of these compounds, (plus phenols, tannins and mucilages) wintergreen can help with pain and viral infections alike.

Although the essential/volatile oils are too strong to be taken internally, the leaves, which contain much of the same properties in weaker proportions, can be used to treat influenza, colds, and various bacterial infections. Via an infusion of wintergreen leaves, benefits like the alleviation of stomach pain, earaches and fever have also been documented. They also make excellent supplements to herbal steams that can treat headaches, soothe sore throats, open nasal passages and act as a gentle astringent for facial pores. A common companion to wintergreen is eucalyptus, pine, peppermint, and lemon--the aromatic and refreshing qualities of each act as complements to the other.

The analgesic qualities of wintergreen are best observed when wintergreen poultices, salves or creams are applied externally. When rubbed into the skin, the methyl salicylate has an effect similar to that of aspirin, or over-the-counter sports creams like Ben-Gay. It can relieve side effects of rheumatism and arthritis, which include inflammation of ligaments and joints, and pain or soreness. Use these potent applications with caution, however- use small amounts and discontinue use if you find that your skin is sensitive to oil of wintergreen. Test a small area of the inside of your wrist before applying large patches.

Additional uses for wintergreen are as an oral germicide and an aromatherapy agent. When added to toothpaste, mouthwash, etc., it has an odor and germ killing activity that leaves your mouth unmistakably fresh and clean. Try an all-natural whitening and germicidal toothpaste recipe of baking soda and wintergreen leaves. The toothpaste will be free of preservatives and artificial ingredients but still have the same benefits. The scent of wintergreen, when used in aromatherapy, can lift moods, give a sense of restoration and clear-headedness, and gently alleviate signs of chronic fatigue or tiredness. The same mood-lifting qualities of the scent can also help those who experience trouble focusing--it's proven to help with alertness and sharpness of the mind.

Wintergreen oil is used topically (diluted) or aromatherapeutically as a folk remedy for muscle and joint discomfort, arthritis, cellulite, obesity, edema, poor circulation, headache, heart disease, hypertension, rheumatism, tendinitis, cramps, inflammation, eczema, hair care, psoriasis, gout, ulcers, broken or bruised bones. The liquid salicylate dissolves into tissue and also into capillaries, so overuse is as risky as overuse of aspirin. Wintergreen also is used in some perfumery applications and as a flavoring agent for toothpaste, chewing gum and soft drinks, confectionery, in Listerine, and in mint flavorings. One surprising application is rust removal and degreasing of machinery. Wintergreen is particularly effective for breaking through sea water corrosion.

Toxicity of Wintergreen oil
Do not use internally or topically. May be harmful if swallowed consult a poison control center or emergency room immediately if accidently consumed.
Salicylate sensitivity is a common adverse reaction to the methyl salicylate in oil of wintergreen; it can produce allergy-like symptoms or asthma.
30 ml (about 1 fl oz) of oil of wintergreen is equivalent to 55.7 g of aspirin, or about 171 adult aspirin tablets. This conversion illustrates the potency and potential toxicity of oil of wintergreen even in small quantities.

Refrences
Prescription for Herbal Healing by Phyllis A. Balch, Robert Rister
Cecilia W. Lo, 2000. Developmental biology protocols, Volume 1, Springer in google books
Khilendra Gurung 2007. Analysis of wintergreen oil, Ecology Agriculture and Rural Development Society, Dolakha, Nepal
Essential Oil Profile of Wintergreen by Ingrid Krein
Johnson PN: Methyl salicylate/aspirin equivalence: Vet Hum Toxicol 1985; 26:317-318
Howrie DL, Moriaty R, Breit R: Candy flavoring as a source of salicylate poisoning. Pediatrics 1985; 75:869-871
Beck TR, Beck JB 1963. Elements of Medical Jurisprudence, ed 11. Philadelphia, JB Lippincott, 1963
Stevenson CA 1937 Oil of wintergreen poisoning. Med Sci 193:772-788
The Salicylate Handbook: Your guide to understanding salicylate sensitivity by Sharla Race

Active Compounds: Volatile oil, Resin, Tannins, Phenols, Mucilage
Botanical Name: Gaultheria Procumbens
Origin: India
Notes: Non-irradiated. Certified Kosher.  aka Canada tea, Partridge berry, Grouse berry, Red pollom, Red berry tea, Hillberry, Ivory plum
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
* FDA Disclaimer