Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Ericaceae
• Common Names: Wintergreen, Eastern Teaberry, Mountain Tea
• Parts Used: Leaves, essential oil

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Description

Gaultheria procumbens is a low-growing evergreen shrub native to North America, particularly found in pine forests and acidic soils. It is best known for its distinctively fragrant leaves, which contain methyl salicylate, a compound with pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. Wintergreen has been widely used in traditional medicine for musculoskeletal pain, respiratory issues, and digestive health.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used by Native American tribes for pain relief, inflammation, and respiratory conditions.
• Traditionally infused into teas for digestive and respiratory health.
• Applied externally for sore muscles, arthritis, and joint pain.
• Used as a flavoring agent in traditional medicine and foods.

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Constituents

• Methyl salicylate (a natural aspirin-like compound)
• Tannins
• Flavonoids
• Essential oils

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Actions

• Analgesic (pain-relieving)
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antispasmodic
• Carminative
• Diuretic
• Stimulant

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Medicinal Uses

1. Pain Relief and Musculoskeletal Support:
Wintergreen oil is commonly used for muscle aches, arthritis, and joint pain due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.

2. Respiratory Health:
Traditionally used for colds, congestion, and respiratory infections.

3. Digestive Aid:
Acts as a carminative to relieve bloating, gas, and indigestion.

4. Circulatory Stimulation:
Promotes blood flow and reduces inflammation in affected areas.

5. Skin and Wound Healing:
Used externally for wounds, insect bites, and minor skin irritations.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1 tsp of dried leaves per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10 minutes and drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

• 2-4 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Essential Oil (Topical Use):

• Dilute with carrier oil and apply externally for muscle and joint pain.

Poultice (Topical Use):

• Crushed fresh leaves applied to sore muscles and minor wounds.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid use due to its salicylate content.
• Aspirin Sensitivity: May cause adverse reactions in individuals allergic to aspirin.
• Essential Oil Caution: Never ingest the essential oil; it can be toxic in high doses.
• Blood-Thinning Effects: May interact with anticoagulant medications.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and drying; used for pain relief, circulation, and respiratory support.
• Traditional Indigenous Medicine: Used as a tea for inflammation, pain relief, and digestive issues.
• Ayurveda: Primarily balances Kapha and Vata, but excessive use may aggravate Pitta.

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Combinations

• For Pain Relief: Combine with arnica and white willow bark.
• For Respiratory Support: Combine with eucalyptus and thyme.
• For Digestive Aid: Combine with peppermint and ginger.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Leaves are collected in late summer and early fall.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
• Storage: Store dried leaves in airtight containers away from moisture and light.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Gaultheria procumbens’s role in pain relief, anti-inflammatory action, and respiratory health, reinforcing its traditional medicinal applications.

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Wintergreen remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for pain relief, respiratory health, and circulatory support.