Wintergreen (gaultheria procumbens)
Synopsis of wintergreen
Wintergreen refers to several plants in the Gaultheria genus, with the most commonly used species being Gaultheria procumbens, also known as Eastern wintergreen or Teaberry. This low-growing, evergreen shrub is native to North America and is easily recognized by its aromatic, glossy green leaves and small, red berries. The plant contains methyl salicylate, an active compound responsible for its characteristic minty, cooling aroma and therapeutic effects.
Methyl salicylate is chemically related to aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid), and wintergreen has similar anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties. It is widely used topically in balms, oils, and liniments for muscle and joint pain relief (rheumatism, arthritis, and general aches) by stimulating blood flow to the affected area. It is also employed in oral hygiene products due to its antiseptic and breath-freshening properties, as well as in aromatherapy to promote mental clarity and reduce tension.
Internally, wintergreen was once used to treat conditions such as fevers, headaches, and digestive upset, though modern use is mostly focused on topical applications due to the strong potency of methyl salicylate. Wintergreen essential oil should be used cautiously, as it can be toxic if ingested in large quantities.
Historical Use:
Wintergreen has a long history of use in both Native American and European folk medicine. Native American tribes, including the Cherokee and Iroquois, used wintergreen leaves and berries for pain relief, fever management, and as a treatment for gout and muscle soreness. They also brewed the leaves into a tea, which was consumed to alleviate stomachaches and urinary tract issues. Wintergreen was often mixed with other herbs to create poultices and infusions for topical and internal use.
In the 19th century, European settlers adopted wintergreen and began distilling its essential oil, extracting methyl salicylate for use in pain-relieving ointments, creams, and liniments. The oil became a popular ingredient in over-the-counter medications for muscle and joint pain, much as it is used today. Additionally, wintergreen was widely used to make wintergreen-flavored candies, chewing gum, and soda—familiar uses that persist in modern-day products.
During the 20th century, methyl salicylate gained recognition as a precursor to aspirin, with its anti-inflammatory properties leading to its use in modern topical analgesics. Wintergreen’s association with pain relief, particularly for rheumatic conditions, continued to grow as pharmaceutical and herbal medicine practices converged.
Today, wintergreen is still used in muscle rubs, balms, and essential oil preparations for soothing sore muscles and improving circulation. It also remains a popular ingredient in oral care and aromatherapy blends. Despite its strong historical roots, wintergreen is often used with care due to the potency of its active compounds, particularly when it comes to internal consumption or concentrated essential oil formulations.
Wintergreen is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Traditional)
Arthritis (Traditional)
Backache (Traditional)
Bites and Stings (Traditional)
Bleeding (external) (Traditional)
Boils (Traditional)
Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Dandruff (Traditional)
Fever (Traditional)
Gas and Bloating (Traditional)
Headache (general) (Traditional)
Headache (sinus) (Traditional)
Headache (tension) (Traditional)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Injuries (Traditional)
Neuralgia and Neuritis (Traditional)
Pain (general remedies for) (Scientific)
Skin (infections) (Traditional)
Sprains (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
Products containing wintergreen
Nature's Sunshine Tei-Fu Essential Oils
Nature's Sunshine Tei-Fu® Soothing Blend
