Gaultheria procumbens

Other names: Lilac, Wintergreen

Gaultheria procumbens is an unusually fragrant perennial native to the forests of North America. This low-growing plant with bright red berries and glossy leathery leaves is particularly popular for its distinctive smell, which is reminiscent of winter landscapes. This gives it one of its English names - Wintergreen, which translates as 'winter green'. Otherwise, it is also known in English as líbavka, reflecting its delicious smell and taste.

Due to its strong scent, the essential oil of lovage is used in perfumery and to make aromatic candles. It is also widely used in the food industry, where it imparts a characteristic minty flavour to, for example, chewing gum, sweets, teas and soda water. It also plays an important role in medicine. It is a source of methyl salicylate, which is used as an analgesic and antipyretic, i.e. to relieve pain and reduce fever. The natural extract of lovage is also becoming increasingly popular in natural cosmetics, where it is used for its soothing and regenerative effects on the skin.