

WinterGreen Oil
Wintergreen Oil is a potent essential oil distilled from the leaves of the Gaultheria procumbens or Gaultheria fragrantissima plant, both native to North America and Asia. The oil is obtained via steam distillation and is known for its distinct, sweet, minty aroma and high content of methyl salicylate (typically 98% or more), which gives Wintergreen Oil its strong analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Historically used in traditional medicine, topical pain relief, and flavoring, Wintergreen Oil remains an active component in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, personal care, and industrial applications. Its powerful scent and soothing properties make it particularly valued in muscle relief formulas, oral care products, and sports applications.
WinterGreen Oil
Primary Uses
Aromatherapy & Wellness
- Used in diffuser blends for a refreshing, mentally uplifting aroma
- Incorporated in aromatherapy oils to promote a sense of clarity and invigoration
- Blended with other oils (diluted) for mindfulness and stress relief treatments
Cosmetics and Personal Care
- Added to muscle and joint creams, balms, and gels for its deep-penetrating analgesic action
- Used in foot soaks and massage oils to relieve sore muscles, stiffness, and tension
- Included in sports recovery lotions and post-exercise treatments for soothing inflammation
- Applied in bath oils and salts for a cooling, refreshing soak
- Occasionally used in small amounts in oral care (e.g., mouthwash) for its minty flavor and antiseptic properties
- Added to natural deodorants for its strong scent and mild antimicrobial action
- Used in anti-dandruff and scalp care formulations for its cooling and circulation-boosting effects
Topical Applications
- Diluted in carrier oils and used as a rub for arthritis, rheumatism, and back pain
- Blended into compresses for localized pain relief or muscle spasms
- Used in warming balms to relieve sports injuries, sprains, or strains
Secondary Uses
Pharmaceutical Applications
- Used in topical analgesic products such as pain-relief ointments, liniments, and medicated patches
- Incorporated in medicated dental products or sprays for its soothing and numbing effect
- Used in over-the-counter muscle rubs and sprays for anti-inflammatory and counterirritant actions
Cleaning and Ambient Scenting
- Added to disinfectant or cleaning sprays for a minty, medicinal freshness
- Used in air fresheners or scented candles to impart a crisp, invigorating aroma
Industrial and Specialty Applications
- Used as a flavoring agent in limited quantities for gums, toothpastes, and mouth rinses (must comply with food safety guidelines)
- Employed in liniments and veterinary products for topical anti-inflammatory effects
- Occasionally used in adhesives and coatings to add minty aroma (low concentrations)
- Applied in fragrance and natural pest repellent formulations for its strong aroma and masking capability
 Basic Identification Attributes
- Botanical Name: Gaultheria procumbens / Gaultheria fragrantissima
- Common/Trade Name: Wintergreen Oil
- INCI Name: Gaultheria Procumbens Leaf Oil
- CAS Number: 68917-75-9 / 119-36-8 (Methyl Salicylate)
- HS Code: 3301.29
- Synonyms: Gaultheria Oil, Mountain Tea Oil, Methyl Salicylate Oil
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Mobile essential oil
- Color & Odor: Clear to pale yellow; strong, sweet minty aroma
- Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in alcohol and oils
- Refractive Index: 1.535 – 1.538
- Specific Gravity: 1.175 – 1.190
- Main Components: Methyl salicylate (≥98%), alpha-pinene, limonene
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Harmful if swallowed; skin and eye irritant; avoid undiluted use
- Toxicity: High in methyl salicylate—should always be used diluted and externally
- Exposure Limits: Use under 2.5% in leave-on cosmetic products; consult IFRA guidelines
- Allergen Information: Contains naturally occurring salicylates—avoid in salicylate-sensitive individuals
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in cool, dark, well-ventilated place away from heat and sunlight
- Container Type: Amber glass or aluminum drums with tight closures
- Shelf Life: 24 to 36 months under optimal conditions
- Handling Precautions: Avoid undiluted skin contact; wear gloves and eye protection during bulk handling
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- IFRA-compliant with concentration restrictions in fragrance formulations
- Complies with cosmetic regulations in most global markets (subject to usage limits)
- Not classified as hazardous for transport when properly packaged
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
- Ecotoxicity: Harmful to aquatic organisms in high concentrations
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected in standard usage concentrations
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Gloves, eye protection, lab coat for bulk use
- Handling Guidelines: Use diluted; avoid inhalation of concentrated vapors
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if symptoms persist
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek medical help if irritation persists
- Eye Contact: Rinse thoroughly with water for 15 minutes; consult physician
- Ingestion: DO NOT induce vomiting; seek immediate medical help
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Flammable; keep away from heat, sparks, and open flames
- Extinguishing Media: COâ‚‚, dry chemical, foam
- Special Precautions: Use self-contained breathing apparatus for large fires
- Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, toxic fumes