Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens) has been used traditionally in some folk medicine practices for its purported medicinal properties, including as an external application for minor wounds, bruises, and sometimes bleeding. The primary active compound in wintergreen is methyl salicylate, which is structurally related to aspirin and possesses analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the actual evidence supporting the use of wintergreen specifically to stop or treat external bleeding is extremely limited and largely anecdotal. Historically, wintergreen oil was sometimes applied topically as a counterirritant to increase blood flow and reduce pain, but not necessarily as a hemostatic agent (to stop bleeding). There are no well-documented clinical studies or scientific trials validating its efficacy for this purpose. Modern herbal references and pharmacological texts do not list wintergreen as a standard remedy for external bleeding. Furthermore, methyl salicylate can be toxic if absorbed in large amounts through the skin, and its use on open wounds is generally discouraged. In summary, while wintergreen may have been used in some traditional contexts for various skin conditions, there is little to no robust evidence supporting its use for treating external bleeding, and the practice cannot be recommended based on current scientific knowledge.

More about Wintergreen
More about Bleeding (external)

Other ingredients used for Bleeding (external)

Other health conditions supported by Wintergreen

Products containing Wintergreen