Pennyroyal
Mentha pulegium
Family: Lamiaceae
Herbaceous perennial. Native to Europe, the Mediterranean and
Persia. The smallest of the mints, Pennyroyal nonetheless has the
strongest aromatics due to the unique and highly volatile essential oils
it contains. Simply bringing the plant into a sick room will purify
the air and make the patient feel more alive. Taken internally as
a tea of the dried herb, it relieves gas, brings on a sweat and will jump-start
the menses, especially if they are delayed due to the onset of a cold.
It must never be used during pregnancy.
Cultivation: Extra care. Light-dependent germinator. Prefers
moist garden soil, the edge of a stream or ditch. Space 6 inches
apart. Grows to 1 foot tall.
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