EUROPEAN PENNYROYAL or PUDDING GRASS

(Mentha Pulegium; LABIATAE)

Part used:  Herb, oil.

Therapeutic action:

Emmenagogue, tonic, diaphoretic, stimulant, carminative, anthelmintic, depurant, detergent, vulnerary, anti-venomous, antispasmodic, sedative, condiment.   Pennyroyal is a very reliable and effective emmenagogue, especially for retarded or obstructed menstruation due to a sudden chill or cold (which, according to Dr. Nowell, when taken warm in connection with a vapor bath it is almost a specific cure). Pennyroyal has an agreeable and warming influence on the stomach, and its diaphoretic and stimulative action recommends it highly for feverish conditions, bronchial congestion, eruptive diseases (measles, smallpox, etc.). It is soothing and relaxing to spasmodic, nervous, and cross conditions. It has anti-venomous properties, and has been reputed to have water purification properties. Prepared in apple cider vinegar, it has been useful as a healing vulnerary and a cleansing detergent, and this has been effective against such vile conditions as leprosy. The oil of pennyroyal is a first-rate protection against insect bites (mosquitoes, gnats, and other similar winged pests). It should not be used during pregnancy.

Medicinal uses:

Amenorrhea, menorrhagia, nausea, colds, pneumonia, flu, fever, flatulence, spasms, colic pains, nervousness, hysteria, disordered stomach, measles, pulmonary congestion, dizziness, ulcers, bruises, black-eye, whooping cough, leprosy, insect and snake bites, tuberculosis, headache, griping, etc.

Preparation:

Fluid extract, infusion, oil, powder, tincture. Due to its rich volatile oil (on which much of its medicinal effectiveness depends), pennyroyal should never be boiled, and care should be taken to cover the infusion.

Dosage:

Do not take during pregnancy; taken best in smaller and repeated doses.