Wintergreen is an essential oil extracted from the very fragrant Gaultheria plant native to Nepal. The shrub has bell-shaped white or pink flowers. In spring and autumn it produces small red berries.
If you have never suffered from muscle pain or rheumatism, the name Wintergreen or Galtheria may not tell you much. If, on the other hand, you suffer from these painful ailments, it is likely that you have tried anti-inflammatory and pain relieving products that contained this essential oil that has powerful properties that can relieve.
rheumatic pains, arthritis, gout, muscle aches. This particular property is due to the fundamental presence of two substances in the leaves of the plant: themethylene salicylatefor over 95% and thegaultherinawhich gives the oil its characteristic mint scent. It is above all methylene salicylate that is used by the pharmaceutical industry as a natural ingredient in products to relieve arthritis and rheumatic pain.
Gaultheria essential oil:
6 benefits
1.It has analgesic properties and induces relaxation
Spread on the painful part of the body, the essential oil of Wintergreen (to be used always diluted in a vegetable oil, never pure) is absorbed by the skin and induces an anesthetizing effect, thanks to the presence ofmethylene salicylate.
It is therefore indicated for muscular, rheumatic and arthritic pains, as well as for the treatment of chronic pains, such as those of the neck.
Having a warming effect, it also increases blood circulation in the area and brings warmth. At the same time, it is able to relieve pain thanks to the ability to relax tensions in the affected part.
2.Relieves spasms
Wintergreen essential oil is able to reduce spasms whether they are respiratory, muscular, digestive or nervous. It is therefore able to act positively on any congestion, respiratory problems, such as asthma, spasmodic cough, cramps, disorders of the digestive tract and various disorders of the nervous system.
3.Relieves colds and flu
The leaves of Gaultheria contain a substance that has properties similar to those of aspirin and help to reduce the effects of pain, congestion but also to naturally lower fever. For example, a good way to open the airways and get rid of colds is to mix a few drops of Wintergreen essential oil with coconut oil and massage on the chest and back. It becomes a powerful balsamic ointment.
4.It has antibacterial and antiviral properties
The essential oil of Gaultheria has strong antibacterial and antiviral properties, able to eliminate potential enemies dangerous for our health. A few drops of essential oil in the washing machine or dishwasher together with the detergent can have a disinfectant effect and eliminate unpleasant odors.
5.Relieves digestion
Wintergreen oil helps increase the production of gastric juices, which facilitate digestion.
It also has diuretic properties, capable of increasing urine production: this feature allows to keep the digestive tract clean and to reduce abdominal swelling.
Having antispasmodic properties it becomes a good ally in case of nausea.
Again, the safest way to use it is to mix it with a vegetable oil and massage it into the abdomen, stomach, and lower back to relieve digestive upset, cramps and pain.
6.Relieves fatigue and gives energy
Native Americans have used Wintergreen leaves for centuries to improve physical endurance during physical activity. This plant is able, in fact, to improve the respiratory capacity and eliminate the production of mucus and inflammation.
To relieve fatigue, a massage with a few drops of essential oil in massage oil can be done on the neck, chest and wrists. Done in the evening, it also helps to induce sleep.
Put in a diffuser, in addition to freeing the stuffy nose, it allows you to regain concentration and energy.
It is also excellent in case of tired feet and legs, after intense physical activity or for those who stand many hours a day. It gives almost immediate relief.
Chakra
Relieves pains in the body and mind by acting through the 3rd Ajna eye.
Refreshes and purifies the mental of the body and then clears the ways on the rest of the subtle bodies
One drop applied on Ajna (6th brow chakra) and one drop on each temple can clear the mind and relax a contracted body and an agitated spirit.
Cartesian spirit, need to rationalize everything
Relax a blocked solar plexus
Free the body from psychic pain
Release the need to constantly be square
The Co-Impact Sourcing Initiative in Nepal enables dōTERRA to produce high quality Wintergreen oil while increasing the economic opportunities of rural pickers.
Purchase by accessing to the shopdōTERRA clickingHERE
How to use
Diffusion:use two to three drops in the diffuser for a balsamic effect.
Topical use:mix two drops in dōTERRA Fractionated Coconut Oil on desired area to minimize skin sensitivity
A massage before and after physical exertion with a fractionated coconut oil containing Gaultherie considerably prevents and fightscontractures, tendinitiAndmuscle aches.
Warnings: Possible skin sensitivity. Wintergreen essential oil is among the most potent known, but not without undesirable effects, if used inappropriately and in excessive quantities. Given the high degree of toxicity, it is not suitable for internal use. Externally, however, it can always be used diluted in a vegetable carrier oil. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, consult your doctor. Avoid contact with the eyes, the inside of the ears and sensitive areas.