Wintergreen essential oil: benefits, uses and precautions - the complete guide

In the immense diversity of treasures offered by nature, Wintergreen essential oil occupies a place of choice, although its potential is still little known to the general public.

Also known as Wintergreen or Winter Tea essential oil, it is extracted from the leaves of Wintergreen(Gaultheria procumbens) or Sweet Wintergreen(Gaultheria fragrantissima). These two remarkable variants of wintergreen are both distinguished by their rich methyl salicylate content, giving their essential oils exceptional analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, earning them the nickname "natural aspirin".

Historically, Wintergreen was used by the indigenous peoples of North America for its medicinal virtues, notably to relieve muscle and joint pain. Today, on the eve of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, interest in this essential oil is experiencing a revival, especially among athletes and physical health professionals seeking natural, effective alternatives to conventional treatments.

This comprehensive guide aims to explore in depth the world of Wintergreen essential oil, and more specifically of Sweetgreen(Gaultheria fragrantissima). We'll be highlighting its unique properties, its various uses, and the precautions needed for optimal, safe use, along with practical advice and DIY recipes. We invite you to discover how you can incorporate this natural essence into your daily routine, so that you or your patients can fully benefit from its advantages.

What are the properties and benefits of Wintergreen essential oil?

Specific properties of Wintergreen essential oil

Wintergreen(Gaultheria fragrantissima) essential oil is renowned above all for its exceptional content of methyl salicylate, a methyl ester of salicylic acid, which gives it remarkable analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Thus, the essential oil of Wintergreen(Gaultheria fragrantissima) offered in Landema.com 's online store contains between 95 and 99.99% methyl salicylate.

This organic compound is the active ingredient in many painkillers, but in the case of Gaultheria, it is produced naturally by the plant. This makes Wintergreen essential oil a highly sought-after product in the field of aromatherapy.

The extraction process of steam distillation of the plant's leaves ensures that all its therapeutic properties are preserved. The result is a pure, powerful and effective essential oil, capable of penetrating the skin to provide rapid relief from pain and inflammation.

Benefits of Wintergreen essential oil

Thanks to its exceptional richness in methyl salicylate, the benefits of essential oil of Wintergreen(Gaultheria fragrantissima) on well-being are many and varied.

Its analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic action makes it an ideal ally for athletes: it can be used in cases of muscle cramps and aches, especially as it also heats muscles locally.

It is also indicated for lumbago, tendinitis, sprains, torticollis, neuralgia, sciatica, rheumatism, arthritis and osteoarthritis.

This essential oil also promotes better blood circulation. It can therefore be used to relieve symptoms linked to poor circulation, such as heavy legs or cold hands.

The applications of Wintergreen(Gaultheria fragrantissima) essential oil don't stop there. Used with care and in the right dilutions (as we'll see later in this article), it can help accelerate the healing of small wounds or abrasions.

In short, Gaultheria essential oil(Gaultheria fragrantissima) stands out not only for its ability to relieve muscle and joint pain, but also for its beneficial effects on blood circulation. Its use, in compliance with the correct dosage and precautions for use, offers a natural alternative to more well-known solutions.

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How to use Wintergreen essential oil effectively?

The effectiveness of Wintergreen(Gaultheria fragrantissima) essential oil lies not only in its exceptional properties, but also in the way it is used. Here's how to use it, and some advice on how to make the most of its benefits.

How to use Gaultheria essential oil

Wintergreen(Gaultheria fragrantissima) essential oil is mainly used for cutaneous application. However, as it is highly concentrated, it can have an irritating effect and should be diluted in a vegetable oil before application. This reduces the risk of skin reactions.

1. Muscle and joint massage: Dilute a few drops of essential oil of Wintergreen(Gaultheria fragrantissima) in a vegetable oil, such as Sweet Almond, and gently massage into painful areas. This technique is particularly effective for relieving muscle aches, pains and joint tension.
2. Hot or cold compress: After diluting the essential oil of Wintergreen(Gaultheria fragrantissima) in a vegetable oil such as Jojoba oil, apply it to a compress that you may have slightly warmed or cooled. Then apply the compress to the affected area for targeted relief.

Recommendations for use and dosage

For safe and effective use of Gaultheria essential oil(Gaultheria fragrantissima), it's important to follow certain recommendations:

● Dilution: We recommend always diluting Wintergreen essential oil before applying it to the skin. A concentration of 20 to 25% is generally indicated for rapid action, which corresponds to around 60 to 75 drops of essential oil for 10ml of vegetable oil.

● Frequency of application: For acute pain, application can be repeated 3 to 5 times a day until improvement.

● Skin test: Before using Wintergreen(Gaultheria fragrantissima) essential oil for the first time, perform a skin test on a small area of skin (in the hollow of the wrist or elbow) to check for allergic reactions.

● Consultation: Consult a health care practitioner before using Wintergreen essential oil if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have any special medical conditions or are taking any medication, particularly anticoagulants.

By following these instructions and advice, essential oil of Wintergreen(Gaultheria fragrantissima) can become a valuable ally in relieving aches and pains. However, its efficacy will always depend on careful use, with an awareness of the precautions to be taken.

What are the contraindications and precautions for using Wintergreen essential oil?

Wintergreen(Gaultheria fragrantissima) essential oil, although natural and endowed with many beneficial properties, is not free from contraindications. It is essential to be aware of the precautions to be taken for safe use.

Major contraindications

● Pregnant and breast-feeding women: The use of Gaultheria essential oil is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women due to the high methyl salicylate content. Find out more about essential oils and pregnancy in our blog post.

● Children under 6: Gaultheria essential oil should not be used on children under 6, as their skin is more sensitive and their metabolic system less developed, increasing the risk of adverse reactions.

● People on anticoagulant therapy: Due to its blood-thinning properties, Gaultheria essential oil may interact with anticoagulant drugs and increase the risk of bleeding. It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before use if you are on this type of medication.

● Salicylate allergies: People allergic to salicylates (compounds found in certain medications such as aspirin) should avoid using Wintergreen essential oil, as it contains methyl salicylate, which can trigger allergic reactions.

Precautions for safe use

● Skin test: Before using Wintergreen(Gaultheria fragrantissima) essential oil for the first time, it is advisable to carry out a skin test to ensure there is no allergic reaction. Apply a small amount of diluted oil to an inconspicuous area of the skin and wait 48 hours to observe any reactions.

● Dilution: Always dilute Wintergreen essential oil in a vegetable oil before applying to the skin, to minimize the risk of irritation or skin reaction.

● Internal use: Ingestion of Wintergreen essential oil is strongly discouraged without the prior advice of a qualified health professional.

● Long-term use: Prolonged use of Gaultheria essential oil should be carried out under medical supervision.

By observing these contraindications and precautions, you can reap the benefits of Wintergreen(Gaultheria fragrantissima) essential oil, while minimizing the risk of adverse effects. It is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional or certified aromatherapist for personalized advice tailored to your specific situation.

How can I incorporate Wintergreen essential oil into "homemade" DIY recipes?

Wintergreen(Gaultheria fragrantissima) essential oil, with its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, can be an excellent addition to your "homemade" DIY recipes for personal care. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Personal care recipes with Gaultheria essential oil

1. Pain-relieving" massage oil: For a soothing blend, dilute 60 drops of Wintergreen essential oil(Gaultheria fragrantissima) in 10 ml of vegetable oil such as Hemp oil(Cannabis sativa) or St. John's wort macerate(Hypericum perforatum). This mixture can be used to massage painful areas and promote muscle relaxation.

2. Soothing muscle balm: Create a homemade balm by gently heating 10g Coconut oil(Cocos nucifera) and 10g Shea butter(Butyrospermum parkii), then add 120 drops of Wintergreen essential oil; pour into a clean jar and leave to cool. This balm can be used after a sports session or a tiring day to relieve muscular tension. It can be stored for several months at room temperature.

3. Soothing hand cream : Mix a few drops of essential oil of Wintergreen into your usual hand cream, at a rate of 60 drops per 10 ml of cream. Your cream will moisturize your hands, and the addition of Wintergreen essential oil will also help relieve joint pain thanks to its properties. Beware of its powerful scent, however, which may disguise that of your scented cream.

By incorporating Wintergreen essential oil into your homemade skincare recipes, you can enjoy its benefits while creating natural, personalized products. Always remember to follow the recommended dosage and test your skin for any reaction before using these preparations on large areas.

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How does Wintergreen essential oil differ from other essential oils?

Wintergreen(Gaultheria fragrantissima) essential oil occupies a special place among essential oils, thanks to its specific composition that gives it analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Let's find out how it compares to other popular essential oils and what its specific advantages are.

Comparison with other well-known essential oils

Wintergreen(Gaultheria fragrantissima) essential oil is often compared with other essential oils. For example, True Lavender(Lavandula angustifolia) essential oil is renowned for its relaxing and soothing effects, while Lemon Eucalyptus(Eucalyptus citriodora) essential oil is known for its anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, antispasmodic and skin-soothing properties, and Peppermint(Mentha x piperita) essential oil for its local pain-relieving effect.

Unlike these essential oils, which have more general or targeted applications on other body systems, Wintergreen essential oil focuses primarily on relieving muscle and joint pain, thanks to its main active component, methyl salicylate.

Specific benefits of Wintergreen essential oil

1. High concentration of methyl salicylate: What really sets Wintergreen essential oil(Gaultheria fragrantissima) apart is its high concentration, over 95%, of methyl salicylate, a natural analgesic that mimics the effects of aspirin. This property makes Gaultheria essential oil a preferred choice for the natural treatment of pain.

2. Deep penetration for targeted relief : Thanks to its chemical composition, Wintergreen essential oil is able to penetrate deep into tissues, offering targeted and effective relief from muscle and joint pain. This makes it an invaluable tool for athletes, chronic pain sufferers and those engaged in intense physical activity.

3. Synergize with other essential oils for enhanced effectiveness: Wintergreen essential oil can be combined with other essential oils, such as Peppermint(Mentha x piperita) or True Lavender(Lavandula angustifolia), to create customized blends that maximize benefits, offering a holistic approach to pain relief.

Conclusion

In summary, Wintergreen(Gaultheria fragrantissima) essential oil stands out for its specific properties, offering a powerful natural alternative for the relief of muscle and joint pain. Its ability to provide deep, targeted relief makes it a valuable choice in the natural healthcare arsenal.

Whether you're an athlete looking to improve muscle recovery, a practitioner wishing to offer relaxing massages or someone struggling with chronic pain, Wintergreen essential oil can offer effective, natural solutions. As always, be sure to use this powerful essential oil responsibly and in an informed manner, heeding the precautions for use and consulting a health professional if necessary.

Find this essential oil on the landema.com online store, among a wide selection of professional-quality natural extracts direct from the manufacturer. Landema, based in the Landes region of France and a subsidiary of the family-owned Biolandes group, benefits from over 40 years' know-how in the cultivation and processing of high-quality raw materials.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q : How can I relieve muscle pain with Wintergreen essential oil?

A: Dilute Wintergreen essential oil in vegetable oil at a ratio of 2 drops of essential oil to 10 drops of vegetable oil, and apply to sore muscles for rapid relief. Rinse hands thoroughly after massage.

Q: What are the properties of Wintergreen essential oil?

A: Pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, improves blood circulation and aids muscle recovery.

Q : What's the difference between sweet ginger (Gaultheria fragrantissima) and wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens)?

A : These two varieties share similar properties, but Gaultheria procumbens is the most widely used for essential oil extraction, due to its generally higher methyl salicylate content.

Q: Can Gaultheria essential oil be used pure on the skin?
A: No, it should always be diluted in a vegetable oil to avoid skin irritation. A concentration of 20-25% of essential oil is generally recommended for rapid action.

Q: Is Wintergreen essential oil safe for everyone?
A: It is contraindicated for pregnant women, children under 6, people allergic to salicylates and those on anticoagulant therapy.

Q : How does wintergreen essential oil relieve pain?
A: It contains methyl salicylate, which has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

Q : Can I ingest Wintergreen essential oil?
A : It should only be ingested under the supervision of a health professional, due to its powerful active compounds and potential risks.

Sources: "100 huiles essentielles, comment les utiliser correctement" by Théophane de la Charrie (2020) and "Ma Bible des huiles essentielles" by Danièle Festy published by Caractère (2013).