Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

European Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) has a long history of traditional use in European herbal medicine, particularly for women's health concerns such as menstrual irregularity and as an emmenagogue (an agent thought to stimulate menstrual flow). Historical texts and herbal compendia from the Middle Ages through the 19th century frequently mention pennyroyal as a remedy for delayed or absent menstruation. The plant contains volatile oils, especially pulegone, which were believed to have uterine stimulant properties. However, the use of pennyroyal for this purpose is based primarily on tradition and anecdotal reports rather than modern scientific studies.

There is a lack of high-quality clinical research validating the efficacy or safety of pennyroyal in treating menstrual irregularity. Most of the available evidence comes from historical usage and ethnobotanical records, not controlled trials or pharmacological studies. Furthermore, pennyroyal oil is known to be toxic, especially to the liver, and has been associated with severe poisoning and even death when ingested in significant quantities. Because of its toxicity and the absence of robust scientific evidence supporting its efficacy, pennyroyal is not recommended for menstrual irregularity by mainstream medical authorities today.

In summary, the use of European pennyroyal for menstrual irregularity is justified by traditional practice but lacks scientific validation and carries significant safety risks.

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