We’re thrilled to introduce you to one of our newest essential oils: Wintergreen. Wintergreen essential oil is extracted from the leaves of the Wintergreen tree native to North America. It has long been used in Native American healing and medicine, and now you can enjoy its benefits as well.
The Health Benefits of Wintergreen Essential Oil
Pain-Relief
Wintergreen is a natural analgesic, which means when it is applied to an area of pain it induces numbness and an anesthetic affect. It also promotes blood circulation, and cools irritation, which is a relief to those who are experiencing swollen or itchy skin. However, you should never apply wintergreen directly to open cuts or wounds.
Stress-Relief
Wintergreen is a natural Anodyne; this basically means that it can induce relaxation. If you are experiencing high levels of stress, applying this essential oil with a moisturizer can help to calm and relax your senses.
Fights Arthritis
When wintergreen essential oil is applied externally, it easily penetrates through the skin around the muscles and tissues, stimulating blood circulation in that location. This activity helps to clear obstructions in the flow of blood, which is one of the major causes of rheumatism and arthritis. It also keeps toxins like uric acid from accumulating in that spot.
Relieves Gas
If you blend a small amount of wintergreen essential oil with some lotion or water and rub it on your belly it can help to relieve gas and bloating. Never take wintergreen essential oil internally.
Detoxes the Body
Wintergreen essential oil has stimulating properties that help the organs in the urinary system to increase the frequency and quantity of urine. As a result, it helps your body to more speedily remove toxins like uric acid and protects from diseases like rheumatism, arthritis, and others which are caused by the accumulation of toxins. Do not take wintergreen essential oil internally! Simply applying it to your skin with your body lotion will improve your health.
Reduces Congestion
Wintergreen contains an aspirin-like chemical that can help to reduce pain and congestion. To open your nasal passages and breathe more deeply, combine wintergreen oil and coconut oil together, and then rub the mixture onto your upper back and chest.
Antibacterial
Wintergreen is naturally anti-bacterial. It can help to fight dangerous germs, viruses and fungi. You can apply the oil with lotion to sections of your body as needed. You can also use the oil in your dishwashing solution to clear odor-causing bacteria and molds from your dishwashing machine. Some people use the oil in cleaning supplies to rid their home of any dangerous bacteria.
Clears Acne
Because wintergreen oil is naturally antibacterial, you can apply it to your skin with your face lotion to rid your skin of acne-causing germs. It also is anti-inflammatory, so it can reduce the redness and swelling of acne breakouts.'
Increase Energy and Alertness
Native Americans used Wintergreen leaves to increase stamina and endurance during exercise, and you can too! Simply dab some wintergreen essential oil, along with a carrier oil like coconut oil or sweet almond oil, onto your neck, chest, and wrists to fight sleepiness or fatigue.
Reduce Hunger and Cravings
The smell of wintergreen can reduce hunger cravings and trick your mind into thinking you’re full. If you struggle with overeating, this essential oil can be a real help! Try inhaling a small amount of wintergreen before meals to avoid eating too much.
A Word of Caution: Wintergreen has a high content of Menthyl Salicylate. This property is one of the reasons that Wintergreen is so effective for your health, BUT it is not meant to be taken internally. Never ingest Wintergreen essential oil. Do not burn Wintergreen essential oil in your home either. When using it for external application, you only need a small amount ( a drop or two) mixed with lotion to get optimal benefits. Never apply it to broken skin or open wounds.
Where Can I Find Wintergreen Essential Oil? We just started carrying wintergreen essential oil in our product line. It is extremely high quality and has no dilutants at all.