Mentha pulegium

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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[edit]

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[edit]

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[edit]

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[edit]

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[edit]

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Mentha pulegium[edit]

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