Wintergreen: An All Natural Aspirin for Headaches

The healthiest of diets will not prevent headaches from occurring occasionally. Life in the modern world is filled with stress and some exposure to harmful chemicals such as exhaust from automobiles is common. Sometimes headaches are a result of these disturbances. Fortunately, many Americans have turned to herbal medicines to relieve anything from a headache to treating cancer. However, the United States as a whole still has a long way to go to achieve the knowledge required to use alternative medicine with skill.

Sadly, Wintergreen is one herb that is still largely unknown to the majority. Wintergreen contains Salicylic Acid, the main and active ingredient in common aspirin and when combined with vinegar, will relieve minor aches (Penny C. Royal, Herbally Yours [Provo, UT: Sound Nutrition, 1988], 46). The label on the typical bottle of Aspirin states that persons who suffer from asthma, stomach or bleeding problems should consult a doctor before taking the drug. There's also usually information about what to do in the event of an overdose. The advice given is to immediately contact a Poison Control Center. No such warnings are given or necessary when taking Wintergreen to relieve a headache or other aches.

Although Aspirin is considered one of the safest over-the-counter medications, obviously, it's not a totally harmless product. While practically every drug, whether chemical or natural, has to be used with some care, all natural medicinal plants have proven to the safest choices. People with asthma who are not taking daily medication may safely consume Wintergreen. People with stomach and bleeding problems may safely consume this herb. In fact, these same people tend to benefit health-wise from taking Wintergreen. This herb is a natural stimulant with the power to actually enhance respiration (Jethro Kloss, Back to Eden [Loma Linda, CA: Back To Eden Books Publishing Co., 1988], 228).

How is Wintergreen consumed? The leaf is the part that's used to make an infusion. An infusion is a tea that's prepared by pouring approximately 1 cup of boiling water over a heaping teaspoon of Wintergreen leaves. The infusion should be covered and allowed to sit (steep) for at least 3 minutes. It may then be sweetened with any all natural sweetener such as honey, preferably raw, or stevia extract. Blue agave syrup may also be used. The tea should be sipped while still very hot. It may be necessary to drink 2 strong cups if the headache is more than a mild one. This is no different than having to take 2 aspirin instead of 1 in order to relieve pain.

Wintergreen is a very good old-fashioned remedy. It is so effective that oil of Wintergreen is used externally in all natural, home made liniments. The next time the novice herbalist experiences a headache, he may want to rely on a couple of cups of Wintergreen tea for relief instead of aspirin. Nature offers all natural Salicylic Acid.