Determining the authenticity of methyl salicylate in Gaultheria procumbens L. and Betula lenta L. essential oils using isotope ratio mass spectrometry

The essential oils of wintergreen and birch are composed primarily of methyl salicylate. Because this compound can easily be synthesized, wintergreen and birch oils are frequently adulterated. By using Gas chromatography-combustion/pyrolysis-isotope ratio mass spectrometry (GC-C/P-IRMS) in conjunction with TC/EA-IRMS, GC-FID, GC-MS, and C-14 radiocarbon dating, criteria will be established that can be used to distinguish authentic and natural wintergreen and birch essential oils from adulterated ones or from synthetic methyl salicylate. Commercially purchased samples were compared to both synthetic 'oil of wintergreen' (methyl salicylate) and to natural birch and wintergreen essential oils obtained from trusted sources or from the steam distillation of fresh plant material. delta H-2(VSMOW), delta C-13(VPDB), and delta O-18(VSMOW) IRMS results provide a clear distinction between authentic and adulterated essential oil samples.

Automated summary

By utilizing various analytical techniques, it has been discovered that authentic and adulterated wintergreen and birch essential oils can be distinguished clearly. This finding is crucial for ensuring the quality and authenticity of essential oils in the market.