Methylsalicylate

=Methyl Salicylate = toc

 By: Heaven

Methyl salicylate is an organic compound and is an ester. Esters are a combination of an organic acid and an alcohol. Methyl Salicylate is also known as wintergreen oil and is found naturally in plants. It is described as a very aromatic, slightly yellow liquid. It is thought to be a defense for the plants that produce the oil. When plant-eating insects invade the plant, methyl salicylate is created to alert beneficial bugs in the area. These beneficial insects act as a pest-control for the plant.

=**Historical Background** = Methyl salicylate has been present in nature for years and can be found in several plant species. In the plants, the compound is contained in almost every part including the roots. It has been documented from the late 1800's and has been noted for its many uses. =**Uses** = Methyl Salicylate is very beneficial in the medical field. It can be found in joint and muscle creams. It acts by making the skin feel cool and distracting the patient from their pain. Some popular brands containing methyl salicylate are "Bengay" and "Icy Hot". Though methyl salicylate is not really a mint, it is found in the flavoring of chewing gum and minty candies. Mouthwash and root beer are also flavored with the compound. Salicylic acid can be used in the treatment of dandruff and psoriasis. =**Obtaining** = Earlier, methyl salicylate was obtained by distilling twigs from sweet birch and wintergreen plants. Today, it is synthesized and is acquired by esterifying salicylic acid with methanol. =Properties = Methyl Salicylate can be a yellow or red oily liquid. It can also be clear. In water, it is soluble. The salicylic acid is made up of needle-like crystals that taste sweet. It is soluble in many things including alcohol, benzene, and boiling water. Methanol is a part of methyl salicylate and it's hydroxyl group reacts with acetic acid. The result is acetylsalicylic acid, also known as aspirin. =**Formula, Molecular Weight, and Percent Composition** = The formula for methyl salicylate is C8H8O3. The percent composition is as follows: carbon 63.15%, hydrogen 5.30%, and oxygen 31.55%. Methyl salicylate has a molecular weight of 152.147 g/mol.

=**Facts** =
 * Density: 1.174 g/cm(3)
 * Melting Point: -9 degrees Celsius
 * Boiling Point: 220-224 degrees Celsius
 * Methyl Salicylate is the most toxic form of salicylate
 * Overdoses have been reported



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