Pennyroyal - Mentha pulegium

Mentha pulegium, commonly known as (European) pennyroyal is a species of flowering plant (an angiosperm) in the family Lamiaceae and is native to Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Pennyroyal is a creeping, rhizomatous perennial producing a mix of upright and spreading stems with dense whorls of tiny lilac flowers at the nodes. I've always admired the way the stems bob and move in the wind and their minty aroma is so refreshing on a summer's day. The smallest of the mint species, pennyroyal is a hardy perennial able to grow in any soil type in any position as long as it is kept moist. Watch out for its rapid spreading and enjoy the pop of colour the purple whorls bring to a green space during the summer months.

Pennyroyal has been used by humans for centuries; it was commonly used as a cooking herb by the Greeks and Romans, as a pest and insect repellent and even as an abortifacient in medievel times. Today is it still used as a culinary herb and insect repellent, as well as in herbal medicine and aromatherapy. The oil of pennyroyal is lethal when ingested, high in pulegone which is a highly toxic volatile organic compound that damages the liver and uterine function so never consume! It can even cause dermatitis if the oil comes into contact with the skin so be extra careful when using this herb. Folk names include Lurk-In-The-Ditch, Squaw Mint, Organ Broth, Pudding Grass and Mosquito Plant.

Magic time! As a herb, pennyroyals are associated with providing physical strength, protection and peace to the user. Scott Cunningham's wonderful book Magical Herbalism outlines its uses:

Placed in the shoe, pennyroyal prevents weariness while travelling and stengthens the body, something I'll definitely be trying on my next hillwalking/wildcamping trip. It can also be carried while travelling by sea to prevent seasickness.

A garland of fresh pennnyroyals placed on the head is said to cure headaches.

Pennyroyal can be kept in the home for protection (AWAY from children and animals) and aids sleeping when hung in the bedroom.

When worn pennyroyal protects against the evil eye and helps in business dealings.

Pennyroyal is a herb of peace, especially for couples so the next time you get into a disagreement with your partner, hold or wear a sachet of dried pennyroyal to soothe the conflict faster.

Sources and further information:

Encyclopedia and Magical Herbs by Scott Cunningham

Magical Herbalism by Scott Cunnningham

www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/59137/Mentha-pulegium/Details

http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/p/pennyr23.html

www.herbs2000.com/herbs/herbs_pennyroyal.htm

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mentha_pulegium

Photo credit: Radicleii

Mentha pulegium

Mentha pulegium with bee