Pennyroyal
(Hedeoma pulegioides (American pennyroyal); Mentha pulegium)
Energetics: Cooling and warming in a way similar to peppermint. Drying.
Taste: Pungent. Bitter.
Systems Affected: Liver. Intestines. Lungs. Uterus.
Parts Used: Leaf
Key Components: Volatile oils. Tannins. Flavone glycosides.
Preparations & dosage: Infusion: Tincture:
Actions:
Foundational: Bitter. Aromatic. Stimulant. Astringent.
Primary: Emmenagogue. Diaphoretic. Carminative. Abortifacient.
Secondary: Antispasmodic.
Uses:
Essential oil, applied topically, is an amazing flea and insect repellant.
Stomach upset.
Cold/flu. Cools fever with chills.
Brings rashes to the surface (Matthew Wood)
Suppressed menstruation as it stimulates blood flow to the pelvis. Also helps relieve menstrual cramps and tension.
Stimulates delayed or prolonged labor.
Combines well with:
Identifying:
Growing:
Harvesting: Harvest leaves just before flowering.
Contraindications: Not recommended during pregnancy EXCEPT when you want to bring on labor. Though there have not been any reports to my knowledge of abortion caused only by drinking pennyroyal infusions without also combining them with other uterine stimulants. Not for long term use. The essential oil taken internally is extremely toxic.
Sources:
Herbal Healing for Women: Rosemary Gladstar. Pg 252-253
The Herbal Apothecary: JJ Pursell. Pg 141-142
The Complete Herbs Sourcebook: David Hoffman. Pg 297
The Way of Herbs: Michael Tierra. Pg 177-178
The Earthwise Herbal: Volume 2: Matthew Wood. Pg 178-180
Studies:
This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, nor is it intended to replace medical advice. For educational purposes only.
This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, nor is it intended to replace medical advice. For educational purposes only.
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