Wintergreen

Methyl salicylate comprises 95-99 percent. Methyl salicylate is a salicylate ester, equivalent to aspirin in activity.

EXTREMELY DANGEROUS ORALLY, 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of wintergreen oil equals 21 aspirin tablets. Multiple fatalities from accidental ingestion.

Significant dermal absorption, methyl salicylate penetrates skin rapidly. Caution with large dermal doses.

Drug interactions with anticoagulants (warfarin), may cause hemorrhage.

Contraindicated in salicylate-allergic individuals, children, those on anticoagulants.

Recommended dermal maximum 2.4 percent. Recommended maximum daily oral dose 188 mg.

Must be stored out of reach of children, multiple fatal poisonings from a single sip by children.

Gaultheria procumbens (North America) and Gaultheria fragrantissima (Himalayas) are the two main species. Leaves are fermented before distillation to release methyl salicylate from glycoside precursors.

Main production: USA, China, Nepal.

Family Ericaceae.

Distinctive 'wintergreen' aroma, root beer, mint candy, classical oral care products.

In cosmetics, used at limited low concentrations in muscle pain products (Salonpas, Bengay, etc.). Note label warnings.