Wintergreen Leaf

Botanical Name: Gaultheria procumbens

🌍 Where It’s Grown

Wintergreen grows in North America, especially in the northeastern United States and Canada.
Your batches are typically wildcrafted from shaded forest floors, where the plant develops its signature cooling aroma and high methyl salicylate content.

🌿 Benefits

• Naturally supports joint and muscle comfort
• Traditionally used to ease headaches, tension, and minor pain
• Cooling and soothing to the respiratory system
• May help with digestion and mild stomach discomfort
• Energetically refreshing — promotes clarity, renewal, and emotional uplift
• Known for its invigorating aroma that opens the senses

🔥 Hot Brew or ❄️ Cold Brew?

Best as a hot brew — but always lightly.

Hot Brew:
• ½–1 tsp per cup
• Water 200–212°F
• Steep 5–8 minutes
• Produces a minty, slightly sweet, cooling flavor

Cold Brew:
• Possible
• Creates a smoother, sweeter mint flavor with less bite
• Steep in cold water 20–30 minutes

🍯 Flavor Pairings to Improve Taste

Wintergreen has a strong minty flavor. These blends complement it beautifully:

• Spearmint
• Peppermint
• Licorice root
• Lemon peel
• Ginger
• Honey or maple syrup
• Chamomile (softens the intensity)

🌬 Can It Be Smoked in an Herbal Cigarette?

No.
Wintergreen Leaf is not recommended for smoking due to its potent methyl salicylate content, which can be irritating when burned.

✨ Spiritual / Metaphysical Uses

• Excellent herb for energetic renewal and clearing away stagnation
• Used to “cool the aura” from anger, stress, or emotional overheating
• Supports clarity, fresh perspective, and moving forward
• Helps break old patterns and bring in new, uplifting energy
• Associated with purification and mental refreshment

⚠ Contraindications

• Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Do not use if allergic to aspirin (contains natural salicylates)
• Use caution if taking blood thinners
• Not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical condition
• Use moderately — this herb is potent

📦 How to Store

• Store in an airtight container
• Keep in a cool, dry, dark area
• Avoid heat and humidity
• Shelf life: approx. 1–2 years when properly stored