Pennyroyal
Pennyroyal (Modardella exilis E)
Brief Background:
The essential oil of pennyroyal is considered toxic. Death has been reported after consumption of half an ounce (15mL) of the oil. A characteristic noted in most cases of pennyroyal overdose is a strong minty smell on the patient’s breath. The active metabolite menthofuran can be detected by gas chromatography in urine, blood, or other tissues. Overdose management includes oral decontamination by lavage, and/or administration of activated charcoal.
The similarity of the pathogenesis of pennyroyal-induced hepatic necrosis to that produced by acetaminophen, suggests a possible role for N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in the management of pennyroyal overdose. However, this application has not been confirmed by animal or human studies.
Expert Opinion and Folkloric Precedent:
Traditionally, pennyroyal is considered to be an emmenagogue (menstrual stimulant) and an abortifacient. Although pennyroyal oil historically has been used to induce abortions, it typically does so at lethal or near-lethal doses, making this action unpredictable, dangerous, and not recommended. A tea made from pennyroyal leaves, alone or in combination with other herbs, has been used to stimulate or regulate menstruation, although the safety and efficacy is unknown.
The raw crushed aerial plant material or tincture are sometimes mixed into an externally applied skin cream, and used as an insect repellent (mosquitoes, ticks). Diluted pennyroyal oil has also been used externally for this purpose.
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