Wintergreen oil is an essential oil that has an intense scent. In this article we will explain to you how the essential oil works and what you should consider when using it.
Wintergreen oil is a colorless to slightly yellowish liquid. It is obtained from the leaves of the wintergreen bush (Gaultheria procumbens). The plant originally comes from North America and Canada, but it can also be cultivated here without any problems.
The intense smell of the oil is slightly reminiscent of vanilla; it can often be noticed on the leaves. In terms of taste, however, wintergreen oil has a minty aroma. Here you can read how the essential oil works and how to use it.
This is how wintergreen oil works
Wintergreen oil has various positive properties. Studies have found, among other things, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial effects, although so far only under laboratory conditions or in animal experiments. It is unclear whether these findings can be easily transferred to the living human organism.
The Pharmazeutische Zeitung reports that observations on the effect of wintergreen oil are mainly based on many years of experience and practical use. She refers to the so-called “Olbas drops”. These are a mixture of essential oils. In addition to wintergreen oil, they also contain peppermint oil and eucalyptus oil.
Wintergreen oil for pain
The tradition of wintergreen oil goes back a long time. The natives of North America allegedly used the oil to naturally relieve pain and fever. They chewed the leaves and made refreshing drinks from the oil.
To this day, many people report a strong, pain-relieving effect. The oil is said to be used as a natural antiseptic, especially for rheumatism and joint pain. The reason for this is the active ingredient salicylic acid methyl ester it contains. It is related to the original substance of the well-known painkiller aspirin. When applied externally, wintergreen oil can have a pain-relieving effect. Athletes who sustain an injury and need quick help also benefit from this.
Since the oil not only relieves pain but also has an anti-inflammatory effect, it can inhibit inflammatory processes in the body. In such cases, aromatherapist Eliane Zimmermann recommends using the oil in addition to lavender oil to create an additional relaxing effect.
Wintergreen oil: application and dosage
In aromatherapy, it is common to use wintergreen oil as a combination preparation. You should always mix the oil with another carrier oil if you want to use it externally. One manufacturer recommends one drop of wintergreen oil in 50 milliliters of carrier oil.
Tip: Read more about our body oils.
Furthermore, you should not overdose the wintergreen oil. Aromatherapist Eliane Zimmermann recommends a maximum of five drops and advises against using the oil in conjunction with heat or heating pads.
Attention: You should not expose the rubbed skin areas to direct sun, as the oil is phototoxic and can release toxic substances when exposed to direct light. In addition, wintergreen oil must be dosed precisely because salicylic acid methyl ester can be toxic if overdosed, according to Eliane Zimmermann. Before you use wintergreen oil in large quantities, you should definitely seek medical advice. You can also only use the oil externally, as the active ingredient salicylic acid methyl ester can have a toxic effect on the body.
Is wintergreen oil suitable for children?
Caution is particularly important if children live in the household. The main ingredient, methyl salicylate, is absorbed through the skin and broken down into salicylic acid in the body. Even a few milliliters can be dangerous: for a six-year-old child, around five milliliters of wintergreen oil is considered a potentially life-threatening amount. Experts vary as to the age at which salicylates are considered safe. The value is usually between twelve and 18 years, says Zimmermann.
Since December 17, 2022, EU Regulation 2022/1531 has limited the substance in cosmetics. Methyl salicylate is considered toxic for reproduction. According to a specialist report, cosmetics for children under the age of six are no longer allowed to contain it, although children’s toothpaste is exempt. Pure wintergreen essential oil is not affected by the ban. However, as already recommended, you should be careful when using and dosing. When choosing cosmetics containing wintergreen oil, pay attention to age recommendations and manufacturer information.
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Buy wintergreen oil: This is what you should pay attention to
The same quality characteristics apply to wintergreen oil as to other essential oils. This means: If you want a high-quality product, you should pay attention to the manufacturer and the relevant seals. If possible, use organic goods or certified natural cosmetics. You can find out which seals are trustworthy in this regard here: What is certified natural cosmetics? Seals, backgrounds, tips.
It should also be clear on the label whether the product contains other oils or other ingredients. Depending on how you want to use the oil, you can choose a combination preparation or pure wintergreen oil.
Also make sure to only buy wintergreen oil and other essential oils in dark glass bottles. Avoid products that are packaged in translucent containers. These products could be spoiled by the light transmission.
Tip: From an ecological perspective, it is advisable to avoid plastic bottles. You can rinse the glass bottles after use and reuse them. From a health perspective, you should also avoid plastic containers, as plastic particles sometimes come off of plastic bottles and these can contaminate the oil.
Revised by Philipp Multhaupt
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