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DISCLAIMER: These pages are presented solely as a source of INFORMATION and ENTERTAINMENT and to provide stern warnings against use where appropriate. No claims are made for the efficacy of any herb nor for any historical herbal treatment. In no way can the information provided here take the place of the standard, legal, medical practice of any country. Additionally, some of these plants are extremely toxic and should be used only by licensed professionals who have the means to process them properly into appropriate pharmaceuticals. One final note: many plants were used for a wide range of illnesses in the past, but be aware that many of the historical uses have proven to be ineffective for the problems to which they were applied.


PENNYROYAL, ENGLISH
(Mentha pulegium)
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WARNING!! Pennyroyal should be avoided in any and all forms by pregnant women, especially the essential oil.

PROPAGATION: By seed and by division. A perennial which is not reliably hardy in northern reaches of Zone 5 without protection.
NEEDS: Partial shade to full shade and moisture-retentive well-draining soil.
HARVEST: Just as the blooms appear.
FLOWERS: Late July onward.

USES

MEDICINAL:
The tea has been used strictly for medicinal purposes. It should NOT be taken by pregnant women (abortifacient).

INSECTS:
A powerful insect repellant. The crushed leaves are used to repel mosquitoes, gnats, ticks, chiggers and fleas. Mix with lavender and cedar shavings for an insect repelling potpourri to use in closets and drawers. Use to stuff pet bedding.



©2001 by Ernestina Parziale, CH

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