Belonging to the Ericaceae family, Gaultheria fragrantissima, also known as Wintergreen, is a small evergreen shrub with oval, glossy leaves.
It produces white or pink bell-shaped flowers that appear in hanging clusters. The fruits are red and fleshy berries. It is mainly found in the Himalayan regions, including India, Nepal, and China.
The essential oil of Gaultheria fragrantissima is obtained through steam distillation of the shrub's leaves. It is a clear liquid ranging from colorless to pale yellow. The aroma of this essential oil is distinctive, both sweet and fresh, with mentholated and slightly woody notes.