Pennyroyal
Pennyroyal is a mint-family plant with a long history in folklore, but it is considered HIGH RISK. Pennyroyal essential oil is especially dangerous and has been associated with severe toxicity, including liver failure and death. For HerbMate purposes, pennyroyal is best treated as a ‘do not use’ herb except for historical reference.
Key Benefits
- Historically used in folklore (this does not equal safe or recommended)
- Sometimes mentioned as an insect repellent historically (safer options exist)
Common Issues It May Help With
- Not recommended for self-treatment
- Historical folklore use only
How To Use (Simple)
- Do not self-use. Avoid pennyroyal tea, supplements, and especially essential oil ingestion. Choose safer alternatives for digestion, calm, or insect repellent (e.g., peppermint tea for digestion
- citronella/lemongrass products for insects).
Taste / Notes
Strong minty aroma (not recommended for ingestion).
Evidence Level
Safety concerns are well established. Any potential benefits are outweighed by toxicity risk.
Cautions
EXTREME CAUTION: Do NOT ingest pennyroyal essential oil—highly toxic. Avoid pennyroyal in pregnancy and breastfeeding (historically used to induce menstruation/abortion; serious harm risk). Avoid in children. Avoid if you have liver disease. Treat as unsafe.
Interactions
High risk with any hepatotoxic substances (alcohol, hepatotoxic medications) due to liver toxicity potential Dangerous with sedatives if used improperly (dizziness, CNS effects) Avoid combining with other essential oils internally—do not ingest
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