Wintergreen is absorbed into skin quickly so it acts like a numbing agent, similar to cortisone. It also promotes blood circulation and cools irritation, which is comforting to swollen skin.

Used for headaches, chronic nerve pain, PMS symptoms and arthritis.

The leaves are also beneficial for preventing and treating:

Digestion problems, including stomachaches, cramps, gas and bloating. Because wintergreen oil can help fight inflammation, it’s also effective for helping treat a wide variety of illnesses — like respiratory issues, asthma to colds, flu, kidney problems and even heart disease.