Wintergreen: PanAway's Not so Secret Weapon

Wintergreen is strong stuff and is one of the primary constituents of Young Living's infamous soothing and refreshing blend - PanAway, which is included in the premium starter kits and one I have used very successfully to calm strained nerves and muscles. As an active mom on my feet a lot, it definitely comes in handy. Plus, it enhances other oils that it's blended with, while refreshing and energizing with its sweet, minty smell.

Young Living says: "Wintergreen essential oil has a refreshing, minty, and sweet aroma. This stimulating and invigorating scent makes it an ideal addition to lotions and ointments that are applied after activity. Wintergreen includes the naturally occurring constituent methyl salicylate, and is an important ingredient in Deep Relief™ Roll-On, Ortho Ease® and Ortho Sport® Massage Oils, PanAway® essential oil blend, and BLM™.
Wintergreen's fragrance may be attractive to children so always keep the child-resistant cap in place."

It is important to note that this oil is very potent so it is NOT generally recommended for children, pregnant women, or epileptics. This is why both it and PanAway come with child-resistant caps and should be kept out of reach of children. The active ingredient, methyl salicylate, is strong and effective, but it can cause allergic reactions in some so a diluted skin patch test is a must before using this oil.

Did you know that Wintergreen "leaves have been chewed to increase respiratory capacity by Native Americans when running long distances and performing difficult labor"? (Essential Oils Pocket Reference, 123). It is very stimulating and supports many areas of the body. My favorite use for it beyond PanAway roll-on blends, is diffusing it to create a refreshing and invigorating atmosphere.

Specific Blends & Uses:

• Diffuse or combine in roll-on blend with R.C. and Lemon or Lemon and Peppermint to support the respiratory system and energize.
• Diffuse or combine in a roll-on blend with Frankincense and Lavender to soothe, enhance focus, uplift, and calm.
• Add with Copaiba and Lavender to favorite lotions and ointments to enhance their soothing effects.
• Combine in a roll-on blend with DiGize to comfort and support the digestive system.
• Diffuse or combine in a roll-on blend with Stress Away or Lemon and Lavender to calm, uplift, and promote restful sleep.
• Diffuse or combine in a roll-on blend with Purification to support the respiratory system, deodorize and purify the air.
• Diffuse or combine in a roll-on blend with Thieves to create an inviting, holiday atmosphere, support the immune and respiratory systems, and purify the air.

Basically, if you're human, you're going to need this wonderful oil at some point in your life. Don't spend one more day without it! If you're curious and want to learn more email me at rach.dorian@gmail.com. I would love to hear from you.

*Disclaimer: This post is NOT intended as medical advice of any kind because I am not a doctor. These product(s) have not been tested or evaluated by the FDA and so they are not intended to cure, treat, or prevent disease. They only help your body to do what it was meant to do, like nutritional supplements. Caution should be exercised with first time oil use - skin patch tests prior to use and dilution with carrier oil - especially in children. Children, especially under the age of 6, should never ingest essential oils without advice of a healthcare professional since they are concentrated and potent. If you are under the care of a physician, nursing, taking prescription medication, or pregnant please consult your doctor prior to use. Keep essential oils out of reach of children.