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Send EmailMethyl Salicylate, Wintergreen Oil, Methyl Hydroxybenzoate, Betula Oil, Gaultheria Oil, 119-36-8
Methyl Salicylate / Wintergreen Oil / Salicylic Acid Methyl Ester / Methyl 2-Hydroxybenzoate
CAS Number: 119-36-8
EC Number: 204-317-7
FEMA Number: 2745
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Methyl Salicylate |
| Other Names | Wintergreen Oil, Salicylic Acid Methyl Ester, Methyl 2-Hydroxybenzoate, Betula Oil, Gaultheria Oil |
| CAS Number | 119-36-8 |
| EC Number (EINECS) | 204-317-7 |
| FEMA Number | 2745 |
| Molecular Formula | C₈H₈O₃ |
| Molecular Weight | 152.15 g/mol |
| Chemical Structure | Methyl ester of salicylic acid |
| Appearance | Colorless to reddish or yellowish liquid |
| Odor | Pungent, characteristic minty/wintergreen aroma |
| Taste | Sweet, warming, minty |
Methyl salicylate is an organic compound that is the methyl ester of salicylic acid. It is a naturally occurring substance found in several plants, particularly in wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens) and sweet birch (Betula lenta) oils. It is widely used as a flavoring agent, fragrance component, and topical analgesic. It is known for its characteristic minty/wintergreen odor and its counterirritant properties in topical pain relief formulations.
| Type | Name |
|---|---|
| Turkish Names | Metil Salisilat, Kış Yeşili Yağı |
| English Names | Methyl Salicylate, Wintergreen Oil, Methyl 2-Hydroxybenzoate |
| Chemical Names | Salicylic Acid Methyl Ester, 2-Hydroxybenzoic Acid Methyl Ester |
| CAS Number | 119-36-8 |
| EC Number | 204-317-7 |
| FEMA Number | 2745 |
| HS Code | 2918.23 |
Methyl salicylate is the methyl ester of salicylic acid. The molecule consists of a benzene ring with a hydroxyl group (-OH) at the ortho position and a methyl ester group (-COOCH₃) at the carboxylic acid position.
Structural Formula:
COOCH₃
|
OH
More Detailed Representation:
COOCH₃
|
C
/ \
/ \
/ \
/ \
C C
| |
C - OH C
| |
C C
\ /
\ /
\ /
\ /
C
C₈H₈O₃
152.15 g/mol
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Functional Groups | Ester (-COO-), Phenolic Hydroxyl (-OH) |
| Aromatic Ring | Benzene ring (6-membered) |
| Substituents | Hydroxyl (-OH) at ortho position; Methyl ester (-COOCH₃) |
| IUPAC Name | Methyl 2-hydroxybenzoate |
| SMILES | COC(=O)C1=CC=CC=C1O |
| InChI Key | OSWPMRLSEDHDFF-UHFFFAOYSA-N |
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Colorless to reddish or yellowish liquid |
| Odor | Pungent, characteristic minty/wintergreen aroma |
| Molecular Formula | C₈H₈O₃ |
| Molecular Weight | 152.15 g/mol |
| Density (25°C) | ~1.17 g/cm³ |
| Boiling Point | 220 – 222 °C |
| Melting Point | -8 °C |
| Flash Point | ~96 °C (closed cup) |
| Autoignition Temperature | ~450 °C |
| Water Solubility (20°C) | Slightly soluble (~0.7 g/L) |
| Alcohol Solubility | Freely soluble |
| Oil Solubility | Freely soluble |
| pH | Neutral |
| Vapor Pressure (25°C) | ~0.04 mmHg |
| Refractive Index (20°C) | ~1.536 |
| Viscosity (25°C) | ~4.0 cP |
| Dielectric Constant | ~8.5 |
| Solvent | Solubility | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Water | Slightly soluble (~0.7 g/L) | 20°C |
| Ethanol | Freely soluble | 25°C |
| Methanol | Freely soluble | 25°C |
| Acetone | Freely soluble | 25°C |
| Chloroform | Freely soluble | 25°C |
| Ether | Freely soluble | 25°C |
| Vegetable Oils | Freely soluble | 25°C |
| Property | Information |
|---|---|
| Chemical Character | Neutral (ester with phenolic OH) |
| Stability | Stable under normal storage conditions |
| Hydrolysis | Hydrolyzes to salicylic acid and methanol in the presence of acids or bases |
| Oxidation | May oxidize upon prolonged exposure to air and light |
| Incompatible Materials | Strong acids, strong bases, strong oxidizers, alkali hydroxides |
| Decomposition | Upon heating, produces toxic fumes (carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide) |
Methyl Salicylate + H₂O → Salicylic Acid + Methanol
Salicylic Acid + Methanol → Methyl Salicylate + H₂O
Methyl Salicylate + [O] → Oxidation Products (quinones, etc.)
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Counterirritant Effect | Produces a cooling sensation followed by a warming effect on the skin. |
| Vasodilation | Causes local vasodilation (increased blood flow) in the application area. |
| Pain Relief | The warming and cooling sensations distract from underlying pain (counterirritant mechanism). |
| Deep Tissue Penetration | Penetrates the skin and reaches underlying muscles and joints. |
| Absorption | Absorbed through the skin; systemic absorption is possible with large area application. |
| Application | Function |
|---|---|
| Topical Analgesics | Muscle and joint pain relief in creams, gels, and ointments. |
| Anti-inflammatory Products | Reduces inflammation in muscles and joints. |
| Cold Relief | Chest rubs for cold symptoms. |
| Counterirritant | Provides warming/cooling sensation to relieve pain. |
| Liniments and Balms | Used in sports creams and muscle rubs. |
| Application | Function |
|---|---|
| Toothpaste | Flavoring agent; provides freshness. |
| Mouthwash | Oral care products; flavoring agent. |
| Massage Oils | Muscle relaxant and refreshing effect. |
| Perfume | Fragrance component. |
| Skin Care | Refreshing products. |
| Shaving Products | Aftershave lotions. |
| Deodorants | Fragrance component. |
| Application | Function |
|---|---|
| Chewing Gum | Flavoring agent. |
| Confectionery | Sweetener and flavoring agent. |
| Beverages | Low-dose flavor additive. |
| Candy and Lozenges | Flavoring agent. |
| Application | Function |
|---|---|
| Essence Production | Fragrance component. |
| Adhesives | Solvent and additive. |
| Solvents | Industrial solvent formulations. |
| Paints and Coatings | Solvent and fragrance masking. |
| Plasticizers | In some formulations. |
| Application | Function |
|---|---|
| Insect Repellent | Auxiliary component in formulations. |
| Pesticide Formulations | As a solvent or adjuvant. |
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Acute Oral Toxicity (LD50, Rat) | ~887 mg/kg (moderate toxicity) |
| Acute Dermal Toxicity (LD50, Rabbit) | > 5,000 mg/kg |
| Skin Irritation | May cause skin irritation (H315). |
| Eye Irritation | May cause serious eye irritation (H319). |
| Inhalation | Vapors may cause headache and nausea. |
| Ingestion | Dangerous for children; may cause salicylate poisoning. |
| Carcinogenicity | Not classified as a carcinogen. |
| Mutagenicity | Negative in standard tests. |
| Target Organs | Skin, eyes, respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract (if ingested) |
| Hazard Class | Category | H-Statement |
|---|---|---|
| Acute Toxicity (Oral) | Category 4 | H302 |
| Skin Irritation | Category 2 | H315 |
| Eye Irritation | Category 2 | H319 |
Signal Word: WARNING
Hazard Pictograms: GHS07 (Exclamation Mark)
Hazard Statements (H-Codes):
| Code | Statement |
|---|---|
| H302 | Harmful if swallowed. |
| H315 | Causes skin irritation. |
| H319 | Causes serious eye irritation. |
| Code | Statement |
|---|---|
| P261 | Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapors/spray. |
| P264 | Wash hands thoroughly after handling. |
| P270 | Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. |
| P280 | Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. |
| P301+P312 | IF SWALLOWED: Call a POISON CENTER/doctor if you feel unwell. |
| P302+P352 | IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of soap and water. |
| P305+P351+P338 | IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present. |
| P337+P313 | If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. |
| P501 | Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. |
| Route of Exposure | Action to Be Taken |
|---|---|
| Inhalation | Move to fresh air. If breathing difficulty occurs, seek medical attention. |
| Skin Contact | Wash with plenty of soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing. If irritation persists, consult a physician. |
| Eye Contact | Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses. Seek medical attention. |
| Ingestion | Do not induce vomiting. Seek immediate medical attention. Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person. |
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Fire Hazard | Combustible liquid. |
| Flash Point | ~96 °C (closed cup) |
| Autoignition Temperature | ~450 °C |
| Suitable Extinguishing Media | Water spray, CO₂, dry chemical powder, alcohol-resistant foam. |
| Hazards During Fire | Thermal decomposition produces toxic fumes including carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. |
| Special Protective Equipment | Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), full protective clothing. |
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Personal Protection | Protective gloves, goggles, chemical-resistant clothing. |
| Ventilation | Increase ventilation; use local exhaust in confined spaces. |
| Containment | Cover spilled area with inert material (sand, vermiculite). |
| Cleaning Methods | Collect with inert absorbent material and place in appropriate waste container. |
| Environmental Precautions | Prevent entry into drains, sewers, and water bodies. |
| Waste Disposal | Dispose of in accordance with local regulations. |
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Storage Conditions | Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. |
| Temperature | 15-25°C |
| Container Requirements | Keep tightly closed in original packaging. |
| Materials to Protect From | Direct sunlight, heat, sparks, strong oxidizers. |
| Packaging Materials | Glass bottles, HDPE bottles, drums. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months (under proper storage conditions). |
| Stability Note | Stable; may darken with age due to oxidation. |
| Packaging Type | Quantity | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Glass Bottle | 1 kg, 5 kg | Amber glass |
| HDPE Bottle | 1 kg, 5 kg, 10 kg | HDPE |
| HDPE Drum | 25 kg, 50 kg | HDPE |
| Steel Drum | 200 kg | Stainless steel |
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| UN Number | Not applicable (not classified as dangerous goods for transport) |
| Hazard Class | Not applicable |
| Packing Group | Not applicable |
| ADR/RID | Not regulated |
| IMDG Code | Not regulated |
| IATA (Air) | Not regulated |
| Marine Pollutant | No |
| Transport Temperature | Ambient temperature; protect from heat and light. |
| Region / Authority | Status |
|---|---|
| European Union | REACH registered; approved as flavoring. |
| USA (FDA) | Approved as food additive (21 CFR 172.230). |
| EFSA | Approved as flavoring substance. |
| FEMA | GRAS (FEMA Number 2745). |
| Turkey | Approved in Turkish Food Codex. |
| JECFA | Approved. |
| Source | Scientific Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wintergreen | Gaultheria procumbens | Primary natural source; contains up to 98% methyl salicylate. |
| Sweet Birch | Betula lenta | Contains up to 98% methyl salicylate. |
| Teaberry | Gaultheria shallon | Contains methyl salicylate. |
| Sweet Bay | Pimenta racemosa | Contains methyl salicylate as a minor component. |
| Application | Function | Typical Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Chewing Gum | Flavoring agent | 0.1 – 1.0% |
| Hard Candy | Flavoring agent | 0.05 – 0.5% |
| Mint Lozenges | Flavoring agent | 0.05 – 0.5% |
| Soft Drinks | Flavor additive | 0.005 – 0.05% |
| Liqueurs | Flavor component | 0.01 – 0.1% |
| Confectionery | Flavoring agent | 0.05 – 0.5% |
| Flavor Enhancer | Provides wintergreen/mint notes | Varies |
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 119-36-8 |
| EC Number | 204-317-7 |
| FEMA Number | 2745 |
| Molecular Formula | C₈H₈O₃ |
| Molecular Weight | 152.15 g/mol |
| Appearance | Colorless to reddish liquid |
| Odor | Minty/wintergreen |
| Density (25°C) | ~1.17 g/cm³ |
| Boiling Point | 220 – 222 °C |
| Flash Point | ~96 °C |
| Solubility in Water | Slightly soluble (~0.7 g/L) |
| Primary Uses | Topical analgesic, flavoring, fragrance |
| Shelf Life | 24 months |
| UN Number | Not applicable |
CRITICAL NOTICES:
Dangerous for Children: Methyl salicylate is toxic in high doses. Keep out of reach of children. If swallowed, seek immediate medical attention. As little as 4-5 mL can be fatal in children.
Topical Use: When applied to the skin, there is a risk of systemic absorption with large-area or long-term use. Do not exceed recommended dosage. Do not apply to broken or irritated skin.
Food Use: In food applications, it is used at low doses. Only food-grade products should be used in food applications.
Drug Interactions: May interact with anticoagulant medications (warfarin, aspirin). Consult a physician before use with these medications.
Storage: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area in tightly closed containers. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
PPE: Use protective gloves, goggles, and adequate ventilation when handling.
Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting. Seek immediate medical attention.
Shelf Life: 24 months under proper conditions. Should be used shortly after opening to prevent oxidation.
Oxidation: May darken with age due to oxidation. Store under inert atmosphere for long-term storage.
BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS:
Storage: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area in tightly closed containers. Protect from light and heat.
Personnel Protection: Use protective gloves, goggles, and adequate ventilation.
Dosage Control: In pharmaceutical and food applications, follow recommended dosage guidelines.
Quality Assurance: Monitor color and odor for signs of oxidation. Test for purity and heavy metals.
Waste Management: Dispose of waste in accordance with local regulations. Do not pour down drains.
LEGAL DISCLAIMER:
This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only and is prepared based on available technical data. The user is solely responsible for determining the suitability of the product for their specific application and for complying with all local, national, and international regulations. For complete safety, storage, handling, transport, waste, and regulatory compliance information, the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier must be consulted. This document does not substitute professional or medical advice.