Evidence supporting the use of: Pennyroyal (unspecified)
For the health condition: PMS Type H

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium or Hedeoma pulegioides) has historically been used in traditional herbal medicine, particularly in European and North American folk remedies, for various gynecological complaints, including menstrual issues. In the context of PMS Type H (characterized by hyperhydration—bloating, breast tenderness, and water retention), pennyroyal tea or extracts were sometimes used as an emmenagogue (to stimulate menstrual flow) and for their reputed diuretic effects. However, the evidence supporting its efficacy for PMS Type H is almost entirely anecdotal or based on traditional herbal texts, with little to no scientific validation or clinical trials to substantiate its effectiveness or safety for this specific use.

Most modern sources caution against the use of pennyroyal due to its potential toxicity, especially to the liver, and the risk of severe adverse effects even at low doses. Its active compound, pulegone, is known to be hepatotoxic and potentially lethal in larger amounts. Therefore, while the use of pennyroyal for menstrual symptoms like those in PMS Type H is traditional, it is not recommended in contemporary practice due to significant safety concerns and lack of reliable efficacy data.

In summary, pennyroyal’s use for PMS Type H is rooted in tradition, but rated very low in terms of evidence and is contraindicated due to risk of toxicity.

More about Pennyroyal (unspecified)
More about PMS Type H

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