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Catalog Number | CI-EO-0026 |
Product Name | Wintergreen oil |
CAS | 68917-75-9 |
Structure | |
Synonyms | Gaultheria forrestii oil |
IUPAC Name | methyl 2-hydroxybenzoate |
Molecular Weight | 152.15 g/mol |
Molecular Formula | C8H8O3 |
InChI | InChI=1S/C8H8O3/c1-11-8(10)6-4-2-3-5-7(6)9/h2-5,9H,1H3 |
InChI Key | OSWPMRLSEDHDFF-UHFFFAOYSA-N |
Purity | 0.98 |
Appearance | Liquid |
Isomeric SMILES | COC(=O)C1=CC=CC=C1O |
Wintergreen oil, derived from the shrub Gaultheria procumbens native to North America, is well-regarded for its therapeutic properties, especially in addressing muscle and joint discomfort. Historically utilized by Native Americans, who chewed the leaves to enhance endurance during extensive running, the oil is renowned for its ability to increase respiratory capacity. Its primary component, methyl salicylate, shares similarities with aspirin and is noted for its cortisone-like effects. When applied to specific areas, wintergreen oil is quickly absorbed, producing a numbing effect and acting as an anesthetic on surrounding nerves. This leads to improved blood circulation and warmth, effectively reducing muscle soreness and relieving pain. Additionally, wintergreen oil can alleviate headaches, improve digestion, and aid in respiratory issues such as chest congestion. Given its antiseptic properties, it can also be used as a disinfectant.
What are the primary benefits of using Wintergreen oil?
Wintergreen oil is renowned for its ability to alleviate body, muscle, and joint pain. It contains methyl salicylate, which acts similarly to aspirin, providing an anesthetic effect that helps numb affected areas and reduce discomfort. Additionally, Wintergreen oil can help relieve headaches, improve digestion, and provide warming effects to soothe muscle soreness.
How does Wintergreen oil work to relieve pain and soreness?
When applied externally, Wintergreen oil penetrates the skin and absorbs into the tissues and muscles. This process stimulates blood circulation and generates warmth, which helps reduce muscle soreness. The methyl salicylate in the oil has anesthetic properties, which numb the area and alleviate pain.
Can Wintergreen oil be used to help with respiratory issues?
Yes, Wintergreen oil can provide relief from chest congestion and breathing difficulties. Historically, Native Americans would chew Wintergreen leaves to enhance their respiratory capacity during long journeys. When used appropriately, Wintergreen oil can help improve breathing by alleviating congestion.
Is Wintergreen oil safe to use as an antiseptic?
Wintergreen oil possesses antiseptic properties, making it useful as a disinfectant. However, it should be used with caution and diluted properly to avoid potential skin irritations or adverse reactions. Always conduct a patch test and consult with a healthcare professional before using it extensively for antiseptic purposes.