Pennyroyal

Pennyroyal (also known as Mentha pulegium) is a plant species in the Lamiaceae family. It is native to Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. The plant is a traditional culinary herb, folk remedy, and abortifacient. The essential oil of pennyroyal is highly toxic, and its consumption has led to human deaths.

Description

Pennyroyal is a creeping perennial plant that grows up to 50 cm tall. It has smooth, roundish stalks and elliptical, grayish-green leaves. The plant produces small lilac flowers in late summer.

Uses

Pennyroyal has been used in traditional medicine for various ailments, including digestive problems, menstrual disorders, and respiratory illnesses. It has also been used as an insect repellent. However, the plant's essential oil is highly toxic and can cause severe health problems, including liver and lung damage, seizures, and even death.

Toxicity

The essential oil of pennyroyal is highly toxic. It contains a compound called pulegone, which is toxic to the liver and can cause seizures. Ingesting pennyroyal oil can lead to serious health problems, including liver and lung damage, seizures, and even death. There have been several documented cases of people dying after ingesting pennyroyal oil.

See also

• Mentha
• Lamiaceae
• Essential oil
• Pulegone

References

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