Condition
Treatment Support
flea repellant
Application
oil externallly
Pennyroyal
(Mentha pulegium)
Botanical Information
A low-growing, highly-branched annual with round to oval leaves and small pinkish-white flowers. A member of the mint family.
Working with Pennyroyal
Part(s) Used
Herb
Herb Forms
Essential oil, tincture, bulk herb
Christopher Hobbs:
“Pennyroyal leaves make a pleasant-tasting infusion beneficial for delayed menstruation, colds and fever, and flatulence and nausea. The oil is applied externally as an insect and flea repellant.
Pennyroyal has a taste of SPICY, AROMATIC and a temperature of COOL.”
Historical Uses
- Pennyroyal has been used for centuries in folk medicine, particularly in Europe and North America.
- Historically, it was used as a remedy for digestive issues, to alleviate menstrual cramps, and as an emmenagogue (to promote menstruation).
- It was also used to treat colds, headaches, and to repel insects.
Modern Clinical Uses (Herbalists, Naturopaths)
- Herbalists often use pennyroyal for digestive problems, such as bloating and indigestion, and for relieving menstrual discomfort.
- It is occasionally used as a mild diuretic and to treat respiratory conditions like bronchitis.
- Modern herbal use focuses on its carminative (gas-relieving) and anti-inflammatory properties.
Chemistry and Pharmacology
- Pennyroyal contains essential oils, primarily pulegone, which has a strong, minty scent and a range of pharmacological activities.
- Pulegone has been studied for its antispasmodic, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
- However, it is also toxic in high doses, with potential liver and kidney toxicity. Pulegone can be metabolized into hepatotoxic compounds in the body.
Clinical Trials
- Pennyroyal has been researched for its antimicrobial properties, but most studies have focused on its toxicological effects rather than therapeutic uses.
- Research into its efficacy for menstrual cramps or digestive issues is limited, with insufficient evidence to support significant clinical benefit.
- Studies often highlight the risks associated with overdose, particularly when using concentrated essential oils.
Conclusion
Pennyroyal has historical and traditional uses in treating digestive and menstrual issues, but its safety concerns—especially regarding toxicity—limit its clinical applications. Caution is necessary, and modern herbalists typically recommend it only under professional supervision. Further research into its efficacy and safety is needed.
Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs
Cautions
Pennyroyal oil, particularly when used in large quantities or concentrated form, is considered highly toxic. It can cause severe liver damage and even death.
Unsafe for use during pregnancy due to its emmenagogue effects.
It is contraindicated for children and should be used with caution under professional guidance, especially in the form of essential oils.
Dosages
There is no standard dosage for pennyroyal in modern clinical practice due to its toxicity concerns.
If used as a tea, it’s often consumed in small amounts (1–2 cups daily).
Essential oil should be used sparingly, with dosages typically ranging from 0.1–0.5 mL in a carrier oil or diluted in water.
It’s crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine safe dosages.
The essential oil and the tincture have been blamed for several deaths after being taken to attempt pre-term abortion. Never use the essential oil of pennyroyal internally. The herb tea is considered safe but is still not recommended during pregnancy.
Conditions treated with Pennyroyal
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
Condition
Treatment Support
insect repellant
Application
use diluted oil externally, commercial sprays available
Condition
Treatment Support
blood-mover
Application
tea only
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
