Adopted by the legislature
of 1999 as the state herb. Wintergreen grows in wooded
areas and in some clearings from Canada to Georgia. The
low growing, glossy leafed herb provides an attractive ground
cover; in particular from fall to winter when red berries adorn
the plants. In July, the plants bloom, producing white
bell shaped flowers.
Traditionally wintergreen
has been used for its soothing qualities providing relief from
a variety of ailments. Native Americans crushed the leaves
and applied them in order to relieve strained muscles and inflammations.
Additionally, teas made from wintergreen relieve internal discomforts
like sore throats and upset stomachs. Some early colonists
even substituted wintergreen for their regular tea, which was
heavily taxed during the American Revolution. Today wintergreen
is used to flavor gum, candy, and toothpaste.
Adopted by the legislature
of 1999 as the state herb. Wintergreen grows in wooded
areas and in some clearings from Canada to Georgia. The
low growing, glossy leafed herb provides an attractive ground
cover; in particular from fall to winter when red berries adorn
the plants. In July, the plants bloom, producing white
bell shaped flowers.