Methyl Salicylate is obtained by distillation from Gaultheria procumbens (Fam. Ericacece). A chemically-identical substance is similarly obtained from Betula lenta (Fam. Betulacece); or it may be made synthetically by treating salicylic acid with methyl alcohol and sulphuric acid, and distilling the product.

Properties:

Appearance..............................................................................

Solubility:

Color ........................................................................

H2O....................................................................................................

Odor............................................................................

70% C2H5OH ...........................................................................

Taste................................................................

Methyl Salicylate has much the same action as other salicylates, being thus used for the treatment of acute rheumatism. Dose, 0.75 mil.