Chemical Name: Methyl Salicylate
CAS Number: 119-36-8
Molecular Formula: C8H8O3
Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow liquid
Odor: Strong, wintergreen scent
Boiling Point: 222°C
Melting Point: -8°C
Flash Point: 79°C
Density: 1.18 g/cm³ at 25°C
Refractive Index: 1.538 – 1.542 at 25°C
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water, soluble in alcohol, ether, and most organic solvents
Chemical Properties:
- Purity: ≥ 98%
- Optical Rotation: +5 to +8
- Stability: Stable under normal conditions, but sensitive to light and moisture
- Reactivity: Reacts with strong oxidizers and acids
Uses & Applications:
- Pharmaceuticals: Commonly used in topical analgesic products like creams, ointments, and balms to relieve pain and inflammation.
- Cosmetics & Toiletries: Added to lotions, shampoos, and deodorants for its soothing and fragrant properties.
- Aromatherapy: Used in essential oils for its refreshing, cooling, and therapeutic benefits.
- Flavoring: Used in food and beverages for a minty or wintergreen flavor.
- Industrial Applications: Utilized in perfumes, air fresheners, and as a solvent in some chemical processes.
Methyl Salicylate is a powerful topical analgesic known for its remarkable pain-relieving properties, often used to ease discomfort associated with muscle and joint aches, and strains. This clear, colorless liquid has a soothing scent reminiscent of wintergreen and is well-regarded in both traditional and modern medicine. Perfect for athletes and those with active lifestyles, Methyl Salicylate penetrates the skin rapidly, providing quick relief and revitalizing tired muscles. It’s an essential addition to any medicine cabinet, ensuring you can continue to engage with your favorite activities without the hindrance of discomfort. - Effective Pain Relief: Targeted relief for muscle and joint pain. - Fast-Acting Formula: Quickly penetrates the skin for rapid results. - Ideal for Active Lifestyles: A must-have for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. - Soothing Aroma: Enjoy the pleasant wintergreen scent while healing. - Trusted by Professionals: Widely recommended by physical therapists and healthcare providers.
- Topical Application (Pain Relief): Muscle & Joint Pain: Mix 1-5% with a carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil) and apply to sore muscles, joints, or areas with inflammation for its warming, soothing effect.
- Rubs & Balms: Commonly used in muscle rubs or ointments for pain relief (typically 5-30%).
- Aromatherapy & Respiratory Relief: Add a few drops to a steam inhalation or diffuser for respiratory relief (coughs, congestion).
- Inhalation: Add a few drops to hot water and inhale the vapor.
- Insect Repellent: Mix with other essential oils (like citronella) to create a homemade insect repellent.
- Cosmetics & Personal Care: Add small amounts (0.5-2%) in creams, lotions, or balms for a cooling, soothing effect on the skin.
- Often used for its pain-relieving properties in massage creams.
- Flavoring Agent (Food & Beverages): Use in extremely small quantities (typically <0.1%) for flavoring, mainly in mint or wintergreen-flavored products.