Mentha pulegium

Mentha pulegium, commonly known as pennyroyal, is a species of flowering plant in the mint family Lamiaceae, native to Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Crushed pennyroyal leaves emit a very strong fragrance similar to spearmint. Pennyroyal is a traditional folk remedy, emmenagogue, abortifacient, and culinary herb, but is toxic to the liver and has caused fatal poisoning.

Description

Mentha pulegium is a creeping, low-growing, highly aromatic, perennial herb. Its leaves are oval, obtuse, and slightly toothed, and its flowers are lilac, grouped in whorls at the axils of the leaves.

Distribution and habitat

Mentha pulegium is native to Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. It grows in moist habitats, including along riverbanks and in damp, open woodland.

Uses

Mentha pulegium has been used in traditional medicine for treating minor ailments such as digestive disorders and menstrual irregularities. However, its use is limited due to its toxicity.

Toxicity

Pennyroyal oil contains pulegone, a highly toxic substance that can cause liver and lung damage. Ingestion of pennyroyal oil can lead to serious adverse effects, including multiple organ failure and death.

See also

• List of poisonous plants
• Mentha

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