CAS: 119-36-8
Methyl Salicylate, popularly known as wintergreen oil, is a natural or synthetic ester with a characteristic sweet, minty odor. Has a wide application among industries and in personal care; an aromatic, a flavoring agent, or an active ingredient in topical pain-relieving formulations. The use of Methyl Salicylate for analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and soothing actions makes it an important ingredient in pain and muscle care products.
Description and Properties
● CAS: 119-36-8
● Molecular Formula: C8H8O3
● Appearance: Colorless or pale yellow liquid with a strong, sweet minty odor
● Boiling Point: 220°C (428°F)
● Solubility: Slightly soluble in water, fully soluble in alcohol and most organic solvents
● Density: 1.174 g/cm³
● Flash Point: 96°C (205°F)
Home, Industrial & Institutional Cleaning Applications
Although rarely used in traditional cleaning formulations, it does represent a portion of specialist products within HI&I:
● Fragrance in air fresheners: This sweet, minty odor is attractive for air fresheners.
● Disinfectants and deodorizers: Methyl Salicylate is a natural fragrant agent in some cleaners, giving the products additional desirable fragrance while potency is retained.
● Soothing additive in specialty cleaners: Sometimes added in cleaning agents purported to promote mild, soothing scents-such as spas or wellness centers.
Applications in Other Industries
Methyl Salicylate more prominently appears in other industries, including:
● Personal Care and Cosmetics: A major ingredient for muscle rubs, liniments, and pain relief creams for counter-irritants against muscle pain and joint pain.
● Pharmaceuticals: A topical pain relief ingredient burn-like balm and analgesic gel, helping relieve sore muscles and joint discomfort.
● Flavouring agent: In small amounts, acting as a flavoring agent for candies, gums, toothpaste, and mouthwashes with a wintergreen or minty flavor.
● Perfume fragrance: Methyl Salicylate also finds usage as a fragrance compound in perfumes and body care products, owing to its sweet-minty note.
● Sports and health products: Methyl Salicylate is quite common in sporting muscle relief formulations, available in sprays, creams, and patches targeting athletes and the afflicted.
Environmental Impact and Safety
Though derived from natural sources, Methyl Salicylate must be handled with care due to its potential toxicity if ingested in large quantities. Topical use in regulated amounts is generally safe, but excessive use can lead to skin irritation or allergic reactions. Proper protective equipment is advised when handling industrial quantities.