Re: wintergreen oil

June 5, 2004

On Jun 5, 2004, at 11:07 AM, DrCrandall wrote:

> Where do you buy the wintergreen oil? It’s really pricey in most

> places but I did find this source:

Compared with most essential its relatively inexpensive, but that

should not be the concern. In fact you might be better off looking for

the MOST expensive. be sure it is wildgrown.

I just want to add I think this sis a dangerous remedy that should not

be used unless on a rare occasion with someone who is not using other

compounds that contain methyl salicylate. Both Birch and Wintergreen

(which are interchangeable actually) contain levels around 98%. It's

actually a very cheap chemical to purchase (it's what's in " Icy Hot "

and all those kinds of over the counter things for aches and pains) and

because of this most of what is on the market is not actually

" natural " - this is probably the most highly adulterated oil

(Wintergreen and Birch) on the market. It is contained in asperin and

many other over the counter analgesic remedies.

I do carry Birch and use it very, very sparingly on occasion- it can be

a very effective tool used properly. Many aromatherapists will not use

it or carry it at all (again- Sweet Birch (Betula lenta) and

Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens) are the same here). There are much

better and safer alternatives and pain should not be approached in a

very generalized way- each client is individual and here are different

causes (the source) of the pain. Inflammation. nerves, etc...best to

address that- and always " first do no harm " . Wintergreen is so highly

toxic that I think you take a real risk in using it beyond the rare

emergency- like you might use ...oh...morphine- which I think is a lot

safer btw and more liver friendly. It does build up in the body and

should not be used except to treat the rare pain- not used over and

over.

Even if you manage to find some (as i have) that actually is reliable

to be natural (which is doubtful since hardly any exisits) - it is

still not really a natural compound- not really. Just because something

comes from nature (at some point) or feels good instantly and seems to

work to relive a symptom- as this does- that does not make it a safe or

appropriate remedy.

It takes as little as 4-8 ml (ingested) for children to die from this

stuff- adults at 30 ml. That's fatality- not poisoning which happens at

much lower doses and can occur from dermal use. 50-60% of poisoning

cases are fatal. Keep this candy like smelling stuff away from

children. Many children have died as it is a sweet smelling oil and

very tempting it found. Keep it locked away as you would any poison-

away from children. Short of death the poisoning process is a very

serious one. I keep mine far from my 5 yr old.

Other concerns are the toxic effect on the liver, the risk of damage to

a developing fetus, risk of dermatitis and sensitization- both have

occurred with even low dilutions (1%) and the Deep Tissue Formula is

excessive in the amounts used- shockingly so) . This is not someone

with a compromised liver should use- in my opinion- ever (the Deep

Tissue formula that is). These substances can store in the liver and

are toxic in high levels- which is a reason not to use this formula on

any kind of regular basis.

Methyl Salicylate is not actually present in the living tissues of the

plants from which it is extracted (wintergreen and birch). It is the

result of enzymatic hydrolis which occurs in the processing stage-

making this substance not really " natural " .

If you do use it anyway- be sure that you or anyone you share it with

is not taking other forms of Methly Salicylate so that there is less

chance of a toxic response. I would not give it to any one with

allergies or sensitivities or pregnancy or liver disease. Methyl

Salicylate is very easily absorbed through the skin and can result in

dangerously high blood levels of salicylic acid. There is some

indication it can also result in fetal abnormalities, reduced growth

and reduced survival rates- so keep it away from anyone who might be

pregnant.

After all of this- I do use it on a rare occasion in a blend for a

customer and I do sell it with appropriate safety warning as there is

some use I feel is not too dangerous.

Mostly I would stress avoiding symptomatic quick fix cures- this stuff

feels good- sure, but work more at getting at the source of the

imbalance and offer safe remedies to bring the body into balance and

not compromise the immune system or overall health.

Lastly- there is an abundance or poor information lacking any real

credibility. Always cross reference and consider your sources of

information well- very well. This is by no means easy or obvious but it

is essential if we are going to use natural substances safely and

continue to have the legal freedom we have now and see diminishing.

My sources for safety and research concerning these substances are

Watt and Sylla Shephard Hanger.

Sylla warns against any use of Wintergreen or Birch on the skin and

calls it a " hazardous material that is crucial be kept away from

children. " and " Methyl Salicylate can be useful for pain relief from

rhematic and arthritic conditions. However it's use does require a good

deal of care and expertise which the average aromatherapist is not

adequately trained for. It should never be applied over the whole body

in a general massage, but should be reserved for treating specific

painful areas " . These are the two most reliable sources and most

highly regarded for safety information among professionals in the

industry worldwide.

Still, I think it has it's place when used properly in low dilutions

(around 1% dilution) on occasion. I don't recall the percentage in the

Deep Tissue Formula- anyone?

Hth~

Whole Life Essentials.

Outstanding Organic Essential Oils & Products

http://www.WholeLifeEssentials.com

http://www.WholeLifeCoach.com

Create the life you love!

June 6, 2004

<<<pain should not be approached in a

very generalized way- each client is individual and here are different

causes (the source) of the pain. >>>

Well, this is a surprise!! I would

be using it for acute sprain/strain type injuries or for a pain that

appears for no good reason. What do you suggest for these types of pain

IE spinal and joints IE shoulders, knees, wrists, well you get the

idea!!

June 6, 2004

On Jun 5, 2004, at 3:31 PM, Ybarra wrote:

> Okay, now I am concerned. I injured my knee a couple of weeks, a month

> ago, and have ordered some Deep Tissue Repair. I also have a

> compromised liver. Is the common consensus that I shouldn't use it,

> send it back?

>

,

You are right to wonder. I would not use it. But I don't want to make

this personal or my opinion- it is not.

Safe dilutions of wintergreen are below 1% -if at all. The formula is

simply NOT safe. If you use it on a rare occasion that is one thing. If

you want to drink a bottle of whiskey on a rare occasion you might get

away with that too....and I bet you will feel NO pain either. Remember

the DMSO is making it that much more powerful and driving it into the

blood. Big mistake. I actually really like DMSO (phameceutical grade)

but not with this- not on someone who could get hurt.

It should not be used by anyone with chronic pain that needs to repeat

use. It should not be used by anyone with a compromised immune system,

allergies, or liver disease that needs to repeat use. If you use this

product- use it sparingly and protect yourself- and be sure to take

Milk Thistle. I think it is a very dangerous formula- certainly not

respectful of the Hippocratic oath.

You may find many people who have used it and are not dead and it made

them feel good. I don't trust that kind of evidence. Be careful .

Lol...I sell the stuff and am warning you that it is dangerous.

Information in many books and even on the internet is unreliable- the

source is absolutely important.

BUT, go ahead and do a search on the internet.

OK, I just did a search on:

wintergreen liver toxicity

These are quotes (remember this is regarding the essential oils and

keep in mind the level of Wintergreen used in the Deep Tissue Formula

is OFF THE CHARTS):

http://www.aromacaring.co.uk/safe_use.htm

CAUTION: Oils that can result in toxicity if used in excess include

Aniseed, Arnica, Mugwort, Pennyroyal, Sassafras, Savory, Thuja,

Wintergreen, and Wormwood.

http://www.essentialoils.co.za/liver_toxicity.htm

The oils listed underneath are banned and cause both oral and dermal

toxicity:Almond (Bitter), Boldo leaf, Calamus, Camphor, Horseradish,

Jaborandi leaf, Mugwort, Mustard, Nightshade, Pennyroyal (both European

and North American), Rue, Sassafras, Savin, Southernwood, Stinging

nettles, Tansy, Thuja, Wintergreen, Wormseed and Wormwood

http://www.essentialoils.co.za/toxic_oils.htm

Although essential oils can be used to the great benefit of your

general health, it must always be kept in mind that they are potent

compounds. There are also some that should not be used on the body in

massage therapy nor ever ingested because of their high oral and dermal

toxicity.

Wintergreen - Gaultheria procumbens

The active ingredient in wintergreen oil is methyl salicylate (98%) and

although it has been used in ointments for rheumatism and other such

complaints, the topical application of this oil, even in much diluted

blends, can be a skin irritant - especially to those sensitive to

aspirin (salicylate). Wintergreen oil is also very poisonous.

http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/rtecs/vo481908.html

Some Reseach

http://www.holistic-online.com/Remedies/Arthritis/

arth_herbal_medicine.htm

Wintergreen (Gaulteria procumbens): Wintergreen was used to treat

arthritis by the American Indian tribes. The plant was accepted in the

United States as an official medicine for arthritis in 1820. The chief

active pain-relieving constituent in wintergreen is methyl-salicylate.

This compound can be toxic when consumed in concentrated wintergreen

oil, even when applied to the skin, so stick with using the dried herb.

http://www.buyaromatherapy.com/store/wintergreen_oil.html

Wintergreen Essnetial Oil Information

Botanical name: Gaultheria fragrantissima

Aromatherapy properties: Used as a pain reliever in specific

applications. Due to its high toxicity this oil is for use by an

experienced Aromatherapist only.

History: Wintergreen and Sweet Birch oil, both nearly identical in

chemical composition and aroma are both traditional folk remedies. This

tradition has led to the discovery of Methyl Salicylate, its main

ingredient, as a pain reliever. Methyl Salicylate is now commercially

produced and known under the name Aspirin et. al. However, the use of

both Wintergreen and Birch is potentially toxic, and recommended for

professional use only. Because of the familiar, candy-like aroma there

have been cases of children ingesting this oil. Commonly used in

chewing gum, toothpaste, root beer, coca-cola and candy.

Specific Safety information: Use only in moderation, possibly toxic,

irritant and sensitizing. Recommended for use by Aromatherapists only.

Do not use over extended period or time, if you are pregnant, with

children, etc. Make sure you look it away safely because children have

been known to drink this oil because of its candy-like flavor. All

Essential Oils should be safely stored out of the reach of children!!

http://www.thrombosis-consult.com/articles/Textbook/122_salicylate.htm

Hepatic. Liver injury from acute salicylate toxicity is rare, however

dose-dependent hepatitis may develop during salicylate therapy for

connective tissue disorders.44,45 Although hepatic dysfunction can

occur at any salicylate level, the incidence increases when levels are

greater than 25 mg/dL. The majority of patients with

salicylate-induced hepatitis-will only have elevated aminotransferases.

Some patients develop more prominent signs and symptoms of liver

disease including hepatomegaly, hyperbilirubinemia, and prothrombin

time prolongation. Salicylic acid also can promote bleeding by

inhibiting either vitamin K-dependent enzymes or by the formation of

thromboxane A2.

You can look for yourself- but as I said- the web is not the best

source for good solid safe information. Professional journals and

professional books are the place to find the accurate information. I

have those.

Don't look for consensus on an email list- don't take my word- look for

credible sources and do the research you need to do.

Take care~

Whole Life Essentials.

Outstanding Organic Essential Oils & Products

http://www.WholeLifeEssentials.com

June 6, 2004

On Jun 5, 2004, at 6:04 PM, DrCrandall wrote:

> Well, this is a surprise!! I would be using it for acute

> sprain/strain type injuries or for a pain that appears for no good

> reason. What do you suggest for these types of pain IE spinal and

> joints IE shoulders, knees, wrists, well you get the idea!!

>

this is a good question to raise- and the answer is not something

I can cover completely or briefly in an email, but I will try. I will

respond later- I need to get off the computer now.

Pain is a symptom. You can treat the symptom and that us often a

worthwhile PART of the approach but not the answer. Plus you can not

treat one thing and cause a major problem somewhere else. Like the bump

on your face. Sure you could blast it off but....well, you know.

I've been typing too long.

Whole Life Essentials.

Outstanding Organic Essential Oils & Products

http://www.WholeLifeEssentials.com

June 6, 2004

<<<Pain is a symptom. You can treat the

symptom and that is often a worthwhile PART of the approach but not the answer.

Plus you can not treat one thing and cause a major problem somewhere else. Like

the bump on your face. Sure you could blast it off but....well, you know.>>>

Well, I misspoke when I put the emphasis

on pain. The deep tissue repair oil with mostly wintergreen oil implies a

treatment and that’s what I should have said instead of ‘pain’.

I’m a Chiropractor, duh, so I certainly want the cause addressed. But

if pain can be relieved, (still talking acute injury) along with

repairing the injured tissue so much the better. I will look forward to

your answer.

BTW the bump is almost gone and it’s

the helichrysum you sent me that did it. Thanks so much!

June 7, 2004

Ybarra wrote:

Okay, now I am concerned. I injured my knee a couple of weeks, a

month ago, and have ordered some Deep Tissue Repair. I also have a

compromised liver. Is the common consensus that I shouldn't use it,

send it back?

Hi ,

I am very concerned about the use of Wintergreen oil in the DTRO as the

percentage used is astronomical 50% or more. Almost every person living

has a compromised liver to some extent. Methyl Salicylate accumulates

in the liver and is very hard to get rid of. Hopefully within the next

month I will have a newer version using White Willow bark without the

Menthol and Wintergreen. Although I might leave some menthol in there,

it will be reduced.

What is saying is true about the Methyl Salicylate. Also I

would like to make mention that no distilled essential oil is natural.

Distilled oils to not occur in nature. Distilling oils changes some of

their constituents. Either for good or not so good. Probably the best

source of true natural essential oils would be the CO2 Oils.

You can send your DTRO back if you wish or keep it and use it in rare

instances. I currently am in the process of putting together my own

version using much safer herbs for their pain relieving properties

instead of the more dangerous methyl salicylate or even acetylsalicylic

acid (common aspirin). If you do choose to use it, use it very

sparingly.

As for your compromised liver, how is it going? Any new changes and

what are you doing with it now? Have you considered Wheat Grass juice

therapy or using Beet Juice? These are both extremely powerful body

detoxifiers that work very well on cleaning up ones liver,

gastro-intestinal tract and anywhere else where toxins might be hiding

out. Also I have been researching the use of raw potato juice for liver

detoxification. I am not ready to recommend that one but the Wheat

Grass and Beet Juice I would highly recommend. I have recently met a

gentleman here in Slovenia who just finished a 21 day raw potato juice

fast to cleanse his liver and help detoxify his body. He highly praised

the effects he received from doing this. I am trying to amass more

information on this one though as it does use juice from the solanaceae

family and although that is not necessarily a bad thing it has that

potential depending on the individual using it.

If you are still eating flesh then I might suggest that you include

some gelatine into your diet or glucosamine/chondroitin along with

plenty of MSM and high amounts of Vit. C. Gelatine and

glucosamine/chodroitin are very good for cartilage and connective

tissues. The MSM is much more effective in large doses with larger

doses of Vit. C. Do make sure you are getting plenty of the other

anti-oxidants, A, E, Selenium. If you are not saving up and dehydrating

all your citrus rinds I might suggest you do so and then powder them up

and take at a tablespoonful in the morning and one at night. The

pectin in the citrus rinds is a powerful detoxifier in its own right

and the bioflavonoids will help your body mend and heal too. K--- nuff

said I guess. Got that salsa machine working yet? I might be interested

to try and import some here. Maybe Slovenians will like. Who knows.

-- Peace, love and light,

Don Quai

"Spirit sleeps in the mineral, breathes in the vegetable, dreams in the animal and wakes in man."

June 7, 2004

DrCrandall wrote:

<<<pain should not be approached in

a

very generalized way- each client is individual and here are different

causes (the source) of the pain. >>>

Well, this

is a surprise!! I would

be using it for acute sprain/strain type injuries or for a pain

that

appears for no good reason. What do you suggest for these types of

pain

IE spinal and joints IE shoulders, knees, wrists, well you get the

idea!!

----------------------------------------------

Hi ,

How about hot/cold therapy, using cayenne oil/salve. Or maybe a

cayenne/ St. 's Wort salve. Try maybe a yarrow salve too. I

haven't tried this yet but some people here use this for pain and they

all seem to agree that it helps. This just might be due to its

anti-inflammatory effects and I haven't been able to ascertain what

types of pain they use it on.

-- Peace, love and light,

Don Quai

"Spirit sleeps in the mineral, breathes in the vegetable, dreams in the animal and wakes in man."

June 7, 2004

On Jun 7, 2004, at 2:44 AM, Don Quai wrote:

> What is saying is true about the Methyl Salicylate. Also I

> would like to make mention that no distilled essential oil is natural.

> Distilled oils to not occur in nature. Distilling oils changes some of

> their constituents. Either for good or not so good Probably the best

> source of true natural essential oils would be the CO2 Oils

>

Hmm...Interesting comment. I have never heard anyone say that a

distilled essential oil is not natural. I would disagree, but it would

be a fascinating conversation any way- perhaps not at 3:24 am. The

plant material contains different levels of chemicals in different

states and via different types of extraction. Then there is also the

issue of how they are absorbed and what parts and

amounts...etc..complex. But, steam distillation is quite natural....in

my opinion ;-)

The distillation process is not what creates the problem here. Birch

and Wintergreen are very different than other essential oils that are

steam distilled. In fact, in the case of Birch - the Methyl Salicylate

is produced by enzymatic destruction of the plant material.

Although it requires some technology, distilling essential oils with

steam is to me altogether quite natural- as natural as picking a plant

and using it in anyway. We do get different benefits from herbs in

different states- hydrosol, essential oils, teas, diffusions,

tinctures, poultices.etc. Anyway I think making an essential oil

through steam distillation is quite natural. Different parts of the

herb are available though tincturing with alcohol (also distilled).

I carry essential oils that are CO2 extracted and essential oils that

are steam distilled. They are both totally natural although both

involve some technology, It is absolutes that are extracted with

solvents that are perhaps the exception. Technically these are not

really essential oils, neither are citrus oils. Many people only

consider steam distilled oil to be completely true essential oils. I

include CO2s.

The bigger and more important point here is that natural does not mean

safe. Snake venom is natural. Arsenic is natural. Also- context is

important. Something may be safe in one context and not in another. No

shortcuts and easy answers.....but that's what keeps us up at

night...and questioning and learning.....

I really better get to bed...I'm getting carpal tunnel from so much UN

NATURAL computer lately.

Anyway the best medicine and most natural is breastmilk....it's all

downhill after that. Nature did create the most perfect medicine and

the most perfect method of extraction- pure, raw, living, and utterly

incredible.

Good night-

Love,

Whole Life Essentials.

Outstanding Organic Essential Oils & Products

http://www.WholeLifeEssentials.com

June 7, 2004

----- Original Message -----

From: Don Quai

health

Sent: Monday, June 07, 2004 8:44 AM

Subject: Re: wintergreen oil

If you are not saving up and dehydrating all your citrus rinds I might suggest you do so and then powder them up and take at a tablespoonful in the morning and one at night. The pectin in the citrus rinds is a powerful detoxifier in its own right and the bioflavonoids will help your body mend and heal too. K--- nuff said I guess.

Don

My pruriency is aroused. What citrus rinds are you talking about? Orange or lemon? or both? How long for the dehydration process? Anything else from the citrus family?

Barrie

"A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort."

Herm Albright1876-1944, Author

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June 7, 2004

On Jun 7, 2004, at 3:52 AM, Don Quai wrote:

> How about hot/cold therapy, using cayenne oil/salve. Or maybe a

> cayenne/ St. 's Wort salve. Try maybe a yarrow salve too. I

> haven't tried this yet but some people here use this for pain and they

> all seem to agree that it helps. This just might be due to its

> anti-inflammatory effects and I haven't been able to ascertain what

> types of pain they use it on.

>

In this context Yarrow is used for inflammation and sometimes to stop

bruising and bleeding- somewhat like Helichrysum. It's a gorgeous

essential oil with a deep blue color.

I also like to use St. 's Wort (I infuse in olive oil) for pain in

the blends I make- sometimes other infused herbs like Arnica too if

there is no break in the skin. I first try to determine the remedy

based on the source of the pain and the individuals health and well

being. If what's needed is an anti inflammatory- I go there, if

circulation needs to be increased- I go there...etc, etc- if it is

neurological go there. Maybe stress is a factor- and so on.

Sometimes there is overlap and what is good for stress is also anti

inflammatory and analgesic. Sometimes however a remedy is very

stimulating and might add to anxiety or very analgesic and perhaps is

not good for high blood pressure....and that may not be best for your

heart diseased patient who is just asking to get rid of pain somewhere

and not thinking of blood pressure.....etc..etc.

Yarrow is one of my favorite essential oils for inflammation and so

calming....I adore it. like it in the bath. Also Chamomile,

German- all the blue oils...great for inflammation. Combined with

others more analgesic...very effective. There are so many remedies and

combinations- it just depends on the person's needs- and sometimes what

you have on hand or in the garden too.

E.

Whole Life Essentials.

Outstanding Organic Essential Oils & Products

http://www.WholeLifeEssentials.com

June 7, 2004

VRYLAND2003 wrote:

Don

My pruriency is aroused. What

citrus rinds are you talking about? Orange or lemon? or both? How long

for the dehydration process? Anything else from the citrus family?

Barrie

"A positive attitude may not

solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it

worth the effort."

Herm Albright

1876-1944, Author

------------------------------------------------------

Hi Barrie,

I am talking about grapefruit, lemon, orange, lime, mandarin,

tangerine, or any citrus fruit rind. All citrus contain bioflavonoids

in greater or lesser degree as well as the pectin contained within the

white part of the rind. As for how long to dehydrate I suggest until it

is dry. Sorry, I don't own a dehydrator and can't give you a specific

time. :-) All of

them are useful and good for you.

-- Peace, love and light,

Don Quai

"Spirit sleeps in the mineral, breathes in the vegetable, dreams in the animal and wakes in man."

June 9, 2004

Ybarra wrote:

Hey Don, thanks for all the good advice. My liver is doing

great!! My last series of tests show remarkable improvement. Our latest

(or next to latest) GP left the area, and our new one just can't

understand how I am healing so quickly without all of the percriptions

they wanted to fill me with.

Yes, my diet is flesh free. That was hard to do, but I am amazed

by the difference. Plus I do the three day juice cleanse every month.

Along with my tinctures and teas.

I'm interested in how your newer version of the DTRO turns out.

Keep me updated.

As for the salsa, we are making some later this week, and

serving free samples at our local Oyster Festival on June 19th. I am

putting some aside for Suzi, and will put some up for you as well.

I hope and pray all is well with you and yours!!

----------------------------------------------

Hi ,

You are more than welcome.I am very happy to hear that you are doing so

well. Congratulations . I know it has been an uphill battle for you

but you do seem to take it all in stride and with a very positive

attitude. Keep it up and never ever give up. Glad you went flesh free,

yes I know it is a toughy to get over. It really does make a

difference.

I will definitely keep you updated on my new version of DTRO. I am

currently waiting for some herbs and containers. I already have most

the makings soooooo................Anyhow, I am thinking of making the

oil and a salve version. Should work out quite well I do believe. No

Wintergreen oil. Should be fun. :-)

:-P slobber

slobber slobber, drool drool drool. Yes I would really love to try your

salsa drool drool drools slobber slobber slobber. LOL It really sounds

yummy.

-- Peace, love and light,

Don Quai

"Spirit sleeps in the mineral, breathes in the vegetable, dreams in the animal and wakes in man."

June 9, 2004

@... wrote:

On Jun 7, 2004, at 2:44 AM, Don Quai wrote:

What is saying is true about the Methyl

Salicylate. Also I would like to make mention that no distilled

essential oil is natural. Distilled oils to not occur in nature.

Distilling oils changes some of their constituents. Either for good or

not so good Probably the best source of true natural essential oils

would be the CO2 Oils

Hmm...Interesting comment. I have never heard anyone say that a

distilled essential oil is not natural. I would disagree, but it would

be a fascinating conversation any way- perhaps not at 3:24 am. The

plant material contains different levels of chemicals in different

states and via different types of extraction. Then there is also the

issue of how they are absorbed and what parts and

amounts...etc..complex. But, steam distillation is quite natural....in

my opinion ;-)

The distillation process is not what creates the problem here. Birch

and Wintergreen are very different than other essential oils that are

steam distilled. In fact, in the case of Birch - the Methyl

Salicylate is produced by enzymatic destruction of the plant material.