Wintergreen

Gaultheria fragrantissima

Origin: Nepal
Family: Ericaceae
Part used: Leaves

Wintergreen is an evergreen low-growing shrub that is now found around the world. It is native to the subtropical and tropical zones of China, India and southeast Asia. Wintergreen is sometimes confused with the mint family due to its characteristic aroma. It has a reputation in traditional medicine for treating asthma and other respiratory conditions. It is also broadly used as an analgesic and circulatory stimulant for muscle and joint conditions.
Overview
Fragrance notes
A sweet, mountainous and refreshing aroma that's both fruity and medicinal.

Blending notes
Blends well with: Peppermint, Eucalyptus Australiana, Basil and Cedarwood Atlas.
History
Wintergreen was traditionally used in eastern North America, but is now popular all over the world. American Indians reportedly chewed Wintergreen for respiratory support and also for treating back pain, fever, headaches, and sore throats. Early European settlers apparently chewed it to help ward of tooth decay. Wintergreen is cited in modern texts as a herbal remedy for arthritis. The distilled oil is reported to have a range of healing actions including analgesic, astringent and stimulant properties which support its use for painful conditions such sciatica, rheumatism and muscle stiffness.

Please note: the traditional uses listed here are for reference only and should not be taken as recommendations for treatment, or cure, of any disease or medical condition. Therapeutic plant oils are used to support natural body processes towards improved health and wellbeing.
Uses
Muscle relief
Add 10 drops to a bath, or 10 drops to massage oil and rub into the affected areas. Therapeutic baths should not exceed 15 minutes.

Tendons
Add 10 drops to a compress, or massage oil and apply to the affected area up to 5x a day. Add 10 drops of Wintergreen with 10 drops of Lavender True to the bath for a relaxing soak. Therapeutic baths should not exceed 15 minutes.

Lower back support
Add 10 drops of Wintergreen and 5 drops of Peppermint to a compress, or massage oil and apply to the affected area. Add 10 drops to the bath, fortified with 10 drops of Lavender True, if desired. Therapeutic baths should not exceed 15 minutes.

Exercise recovery
Use 5-10 drops of Wintergreen in a bath at night after strenuous exercise. Suitable for regular use by active people. Therapeutic baths should not exceed 15 minutes.
Safety considerations
Not suitable for use during pregnancy or on children under 12 years. Safe to use with other medication when necessary. If accidentally ingested do not induce vomiting, follow with olive oil or milk and seek advice from a health specialist. Avoid contact with eyes - flush with water. Keep out of reach of children.

Please note: Therapeutic plant oils are used to support natural body processes for optimum health and wellbeing. The information here is NOT meant as a recommendation to cure any medical condition or disease.
Ingredients
Key ingredients
100% pure Gaultheria fragrantissima, distilled plant, Nepal
Key component
Methyl salicylate, Ethyl salicylate