WinterGreen Oil

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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.

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Categories: COSMETIC AND PERSONAL CARE CHEMICALS, Essential Oils, Oils Tags: Anti-inflammatory Essential Oil, Joint and Muscle Oil, Methyl Salicylate Oil, Minty Fragrance Oil, Muscle Relief Oil, Natural Analgesic, Pain Balm Ingredient, Wintergreen oil

Description

Table of Contents

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

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. 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

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. Environmental & Health Impact

Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
Ecotoxicity: Harmful to aquatic organisms in high concentrations
Bioaccumulation: Not expected in standard usage concentrations

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

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