Wintergreen
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BASIC INFORMATION
Biological name (genus and species):
- Gaultheria procumbens
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
- Leaves
- Roots
- Stems
Chemicals this herb contains:
- Methyl salicylate
- Monotropitoside
KNOWN EFFECTS
- Blocks impulses to pain center in brain.
- Irritates stomach.
Miscellaneous information:
- Toxicity is unlikely unless you consume very large amounts of the entire plant.
UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS
- Relieves headache.
- Treats toothache.
- Treats pain of sprains and bruises.
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
Don’t take if you:
- Are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or plan pregnancy in the near future.
Consult your doctor if you:
- Take this herb for any medical problem that doesn’t improve in 2 weeks. There may be safer, more-effective treatments.
- Take any medicinal drugs or herbs including aspirin, laxatives, cold and cough remedies, antacids, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, supplements, other prescription or non-prescription drugs.
Pregnancy:
- Dangers outweigh any possible benefits. Don’t use.
Breast-feeding:
- Dangers outweigh any possible benefits. Don’t use.
Infants and children:
- Treating infants and children under 2 with any herbal preparation is hazardous.
Others:
- None expected if you are beyond childhood and under 45, not pregnant, basically healthy and take for only a short time.
Storage:
- Keep cool and dry, but don’t freeze. Store safely away from children.
Safe dosage:
- At present no “safe” dosage has been established.
TOXICITY
- Rated slightly dangerous, particularly in children, persons over 55 and those who take larger than appropriate quantities for extended periods of time.
ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS
- None expected
From the Complete Guide to Vitamins, Minerals & Supplements by H. Winter Griffith, M.D. © 1988 by Fisher Books; electronic rights by Medical Data Exchange
