Native to Nepal, Fragrant Wintergreen is a small evergreen shrub with white blossoms that produce purplish red berries in winter. Pressing its leaves releases a strong medicinal odour. A close cousin to Wintergreen, whose name has been attributed to Canadian botanist, J.F. Gaulther, Fragrant Wintergreen is known to soothe muscle aches. The essential oil obtained by distilling its leaves contains a high concentration (99%) of methyl salicylate and has an odour that is highly characteristic of balms used in sports medicine.
Directions:
Topical (Adults): Mix 1 to 2 drops in 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) of vegetable oil; apply locally 3 times a day.
Warning:
FOR EXTERNAL AND OCCASIONAL USE ONLY. DO NOT TAKE ORALLY. DO NOT USE ESSENTIAL OILS UNDILUTED. KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek urgent medical attention or contact a Poison Control Center. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes; if this happens, rinse thoroughly with vegetable oil. Do not use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you have epilepsy, consult a health care practitioner prior to use. Do not use on inflamed skin or dermatitis. May cause allergic reaction (e.g. skin rashes, irritation or dermatitis); in which case, discontinue use and consult a health care practitioner. Consult a health care practitioner if symptoms worsen or persist.