Artificial wintergreen oil is pure methyl salicylate. Wintergreen oil is used topically (diluted) or aromatheraputically as a folk remedy for muscle and joint discomfort, arthritis, cellulite, obesity, edema, poor circulation, headache, heart disease, hypertension, rheumatism, tendinitis, cramps, inflammation, eczema, hair care, psoriasis, gout, ulcers, and broken or bruised bones The liquid salicylate dissolves into tissue and also into capillaries, so overuse is as risky as overuse of aspirin.