Herbs, Plants, Trees and Roots | August, 2011

You entered Mosquito Plant, the more common name is...

The essential oil having a spearmint scent is used as aromatherapy. This is highly toxic and volatile, affecting the liver and uterine function.  Pennyroyal was used by the Greeks as a culinary herb but is seldom used anymore.  An infusion made from Pennyroyal tea is widely reputed as safe to ingest in restricted quantities. Fresh or dried leaves may be used. Is used for nausea, colds, flu, stomach cramps and to induce sweating. Has been used to repel insects.

Pennyroyal

SCIENTIFIC NAME:
(Hedeoma pulegioides)


Native to eastern North America, Pennyroyal is a low growing herbaceous annual plant. Its square hairy stem is slender and erect with many branches and grows to heights of 15 to 30 cm. The leaves are small, thin, and narrow, with a strong mint like odor and pungent taste. From mid to late summer, pale blue flowers grow in small clusters.



Common Names:

American Pennyroyal, Hedeoma, Mock Pennyroyal, Mosquito Plant, Pudding Grass, Squaw Balm, Squaw Mint, Stinking Balm, Thickweed, Tickweed


Pennyroyal

Uses:

The essential oil having a spearmint scent is used as aromatherapy. This is highly toxic and volatile, affecting the liver and uterine function. Pennyroyal was used by the Greeks as a culinary herb but is seldom used anymore. An infusion made from Pennyroyal tea is widely reputed as safe to ingest in restricted quantities. Fresh or dried leaves may be used. Is used for nausea, colds, flu, stomach cramps and to induce sweating. Has been used to repel insects.



Applications:

Infusion:
Steep 1 tsp. ground or cut leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes. Take 1 tbsp. 3 times a day for up to 3 days.


Warnings:

Pregnant women and children under the age of 15 should not use this herb.  Do not use oil extract orally as it is highly toxic.  Do not exceed dosage amounts.

With any herb, there is the risk of an allergic reaction. Small children and pregnant women should use additional caution when considering the use of herbal remedies.