Pennyroyal, English

Mentha pulegium

Lamiaceae - Mint Family

Pennyroyal is the smallest of the mints. It has been used medicinally to promote perspiration for colds, flus, and fevers. It is a diaphoretic, emmenagogue, carminative, antispasmodic, and mild sedative. Pennyroyal in any form should not be used during pregnancy as it is a uterine stimulant.

Externally, pennyroyal oil has been applied as an insect repellent. Crushed pennyroyal leaves have also been used to repel mosquitoes, gnats, ticks, and fleas. A mixture of pennyroyal leaves, lavender, and cedar shavings will serve as an insect repelling potpourri. You may wish to keep a mixture near your pets.