Mint Pennyroyal - Menthe pilegium

Tender perennial. The leaves of pennyroyal have a strong mint-like odor. The essential oil is used as a fragrance in cosmetics. Pulegone from the essential oil is used as a starting material for the manufacture of synthetic menthol. As a medicinal plant, pennyroyal has traditionally been used as an antispasmodic, carminative, diaphoretic, emmenagogue, sedative, stimulant, aromatic, and stomachic. It has been used to promote menstruation, induce abortion, cure headaches, and relieve colds. The essential oil can be toxic, causing nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, depression, stimulation, and convulsions. Pennyroyal is pharmaceutically classified as a diaphoretic and emmenagogue. The plant has been used as an insect repellent against fleas and other pests. Plants and oil can cause contact dermatitis