Wintergreen
Gaultheria procumbens

Another uniquely American contribution to the world of healthful herbs, wintergreen is a perennial shrub native to the eastern U.S. and Canada. All parts of this plant have been used over the years for various purposes. Native Americans ate the crimson red berries and used the leaves for tea. They chewed wintergreen roots for healthy teeth. Wintergreen oil was first introduced to England in 1762, where its unique fragrance and taste made it a popular ingredient in health and beauty aids, beverages and foods. The leaves contain "methyl salicylate," a compound that can help soothe muscles when used externally. Wintergreen tea or lozenges help soothe sore throats, too.