3. What method is used in the extraction of methyl salicylate from plants?

Methyl salicylate is produced synthetically or is obtained by maceration and

subsequent distillation with steams from leaves of G. procumbens or from
bark of Betula lenta.
The leaves of G. procumbens or from bark of Betula lenta are chopped into
small pieces and allowed to macerate in warm water for several hours. This
process encourages the interaction of enzymes in the leaf to produce methyl
salicylate.
Once the methyl salicylate is produced, it is separated and purified by the
process of steam distillation.
The resultant liquid is an ester (an organic acid mixed with alcohol), and its
chemical composition is upto 99% pure methyl salicylate, although trace
amounts of other chemicals may also be found.
Methyl salicylate is a colorless, yellow or red liquid that has characteristic
odor and taste of wintergreen.
Sources:

Tyler VE, et al. Pharmacognosy, 9th Edition. Philadelphia, PA: Lea

and Febiger; 1998, Page 135
Burdock G., Fenarolis Handbook of Flavor Ingredients, 6 th Edition
Page 2020
www.yogawiz.com/aromatherapy/aromatherapy-essentialoils/wintergreen-oil.html