Wintergreen essential oil is obtained from the leaves of Gaultheria procumbens through the process of steam distillation. These leaves are tasteless and odorless in nature. Wintergreen essential oil is also referred to as gaultheria or checkerberry oil. It has been in use for many centuries in curing fatigue, sinus, respiratory illnesses, and lungs. This oil has powerful antioxidant properties which are helpful in reducing pain and inflammation. It is also used for energizing the body as well as boosting the immune system.
The major component of wintergreen essential oil is methyl salicylate which constitutes of about 85-99 % percent. Additionally, this oil has powerful astringent, antiseptic and antiarthritic properties. The skin easily absorbs this oil when it is applied externally. It helps in cooling irritation as well as promoting circulation of blood which is beneficial for a swollen skin.
The essential oil of wintergreen is also loaded with beneficial ingredients and antioxidants. The various ingredients include myrcene, limonene, delta 3-carene, a-pinene, delta-cadinene, and guanidines. These are the major health benefits of wintergreen essential oil
Relieving muscle pain
It is used in making a muscle rub which has the same smell as mint or peppermint. This
rub is used for relieving muscle pain by reducing irritation and swelling which occurs around the painful tissues, joints, and muscles. Drops of this oil can also be massaged on the skin to relieve the achy joints associated with rheumatism or arthritis. It is also used in treating chronic neck pain and sore muscles.
Treating cold and flu
Wintergreen leaves are known to contain a special chemical which has the same properties as aspirin. This chemical is used in reducing congestion, pain, fever and swelling. You can also breathe this oil deeply to open your blocked nasal passages. This oil can be mixed with coconut oil to form an effective blend which is used in preventing the common flu or cold. Eucalyptus, bergamot and peppermint oil can also be included in this blend.
Hair and skin treatment
Winter
green essential oil has potent antiseptic and astringent properties which are useful in fighting inflammation associated with skin disorders and blemishes. This oil is also used in killing germs which would cause acne. Wintergreen oil can also be mixed with jojoba or coconut oil to produce a blend used for nourishing itchy, swollen and red skin.
Digestion relief
This oil helps in improving digestion by increasing the stomach juices and acid. It is also used for reducing bloating and cleansing the digestive tract. The homemade oil mixture from wintergreen can be rubbed over the stomach, lower back and abdomen to prevent pain or cramping as well as increasing the flow of blood.…