FlavScents AInsights Entry for Gaultheria procumbens Leaf Extract (CAS: 90045-28-6)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Gaultheria procumbens leaf extract, commonly known as wintergreen leaf extract, is a natural complex material derived from the leaves of the Gaultheria procumbens plant. It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for this extract is 90045-28-6. While it does not have a specific FEMA number, it is recognized in various flavor and fragrance applications. The extract is characterized by its high content of methyl salicylate, which is primarily responsible for its distinctive aroma and flavor profile. The composition of the extract can vary significantly depending on the geographical origin, harvest time, and processing methods used.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Gaultheria procumbens leaf extract is renowned for its strong, sweet, and minty aroma, reminiscent of wintergreen. The primary odor and flavor descriptor is methyl salicylate, which imparts a characteristic medicinal and minty scent. The intensity of the aroma is high, with a significant diffusion that makes it a potent impact note in formulations. The extract is often used to provide a cooling sensation and is a common modifier in both flavor and fragrance compositions. The taste threshold for methyl salicylate is relatively low, making it effective even at minimal concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Gaultheria procumbens, commonly known as wintergreen, is native to North America and is found in forested and mountainous regions. The extract is obtained through steam distillation of the leaves, which releases the volatile compounds, primarily methyl salicylate. This compound is naturally formed in the plant as a defense mechanism against herbivores and pathogens. The extract is often labeled as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" due to its direct derivation from plant material.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs

4. Use in Flavors

In the flavor industry, Gaultheria procumbens leaf extract is used predominantly in mint-flavored products, including chewing gums, candies, and oral care products. It serves as a primary impact note due to its strong minty flavor. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 10 to 100 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and product type. The extract is stable under normal processing conditions but can degrade under high heat or acidic conditions, which may affect its flavor profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Gaultheria procumbens leaf extract is utilized in various fragrance applications, particularly in personal care products, household cleaners, and air fresheners. It is often included in the mint and herbal fragrance families, providing a fresh and invigorating top note. The typical concentration in fragrance formulations ranges from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the product type and desired scent profile. The extract contributes primarily to the top note due to its high volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

5a. Key Constituents (Typical)

The primary constituent of Gaultheria procumbens leaf extract is methyl salicylate, which can constitute up to 98% of the extract. Other minor constituents may include various terpenes and esters, which contribute to the overall aroma profile. The exact composition can vary based on factors such as plant origin and extraction method.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, Gaultheria procumbens leaf extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food products by FEMA. In the European Union, it is regulated under the EC No 1334/2008 for flavorings, and its use is permitted within specified limits. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, countries like Japan and China have specific guidelines for its use in food and cosmetics, often aligning with international standards. In Latin America, regulations may vary, but it is generally accepted in flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

The primary safety concern with Gaultheria procumbens leaf extract is its high methyl salicylate content, which can be toxic in large doses. For oral exposure, the acceptable daily intake (ADI) is not clearly established, but it is used within safe limits in food products. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications may cause irritation or sensitization in sensitive individuals, and it is subject to IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is generally considered safe at typical use levels, but occupational exposure should be monitored to prevent overexposure.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Gaultheria procumbens leaf extract is valued for its potent minty aroma and flavor, making it a versatile ingredient in both flavor and fragrance formulations. It synergizes well with other mint and herbal notes, enhancing the overall freshness of a product. Formulators should be cautious of its strong impact, as it can easily overpower other components if used excessively. It is often under-used in complex blends where a subtle minty note is desired.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on Gaultheria procumbens leaf extract is well-established, particularly regarding its sensory profile and key constituents. However, there are gaps in specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data, which may require formulators to rely on industry-typical practices and informed estimates.

Citation hooks: FlavScents

QA Check

• All required sections 1–9 are present
• "Citation hooks:" line is present under each section
• Flavor section includes ppm ranges
• Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
• Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
• Includes section 5a for complex natural material

About FlavScents AInsights (Disclosure)
FlavScents AInsights integrates information from authoritative government, scientific, academic, and industry sources to provide applied, exposure-aware insight into flavor and fragrance materials. Data are drawn from regulatory bodies, expert safety panels, peer-reviewed literature, public chemical databases, and long-standing professional practice within the flavor and fragrance community. Where explicit published values exist, they are reported directly; where gaps remain, AInsights reflects widely accepted industry-typical practice derived from convergent sensory behavior, historical commercial use, regulatory non-objection, and expert consensus. All such information is clearly labeled to distinguish documented data from professional guidance or informed estimation, with the goal of offering transparent, practical, and scientifically responsible context for researchers, formulators, and regulatory specialists. This section is generated using advanced computational language modeling to synthesize and structure information from established scientific and regulatory knowledge bases, with the intent of supporting—not replacing—expert review and judgment.

Generated 2026-09-02 06:23:05 GMT (p2)