-IBIS-1.7.0-
rx
herb
Hedeoma pulegioides (Pennyroyal)
Botanicals

definition

botanical name(s): Hedeoma pulegioides

synonyms: pennyroyal, American pennyroyal, mock pennyroyal, mosquito plant, squaw balm, squawmint, tickweed

part(s) used: herb

qualities:

affinities: uterus, kidneys

actions: carminative

dosage:

» tincture: 0.5 - 2 ml.

» oil: 2 - 10 drops (4 ml. toxic per Felter)

therapy:

AHPA Botanical Safety Rating: 2b

toxicity: 1; the essential oil is very toxic

» contraindicated during pregnancy, and with women who experience excess menstrual bleeding; the active constituent, pulugone, is an abortifacient and emmenagogue (Duke, p. 223; von Oettingen, p. 482) with reflexive uterine stimulation from urinary tract irritation caused by its volatile oil components (Brinker)

» contraindicated in kidney disease due to irritation of the kidneys by the volatile oil (Brinker)

» Overuse of plant extracts, infusions, etc. may cause nausea and retching to occur, often without emesis. Dysphagia and severe labor-like uterine pains with a sensation of bearing down may be experienced. Abdominal tenderness, prostration, dyspnea, semi-paralysis of the limbs, and non-specific neuromuscular weakness have been noted (Felter and Lloyd, p. 977).

» Essential oil overdose: 12-15 ml. causes retching, unconsciousness and collapse; the patient will experience a dry throat and strong thirst. Mydriasis with a sluggish pupillary activity, a light and rapid pulse, and cold, clammy skin may also be noticed. Facial motor changes, twitches, paresthesias, nervousness, confusion, and delirium occur in severe cases. This can be followed by convulsions, and respiratory depression. Abortion or dysmenorrhea can occur within a few minutes following the initial ingestion of the oil (von Oettingen, p. 482).

» handling the fresh plant may produce contact dermatitis (Duke, p. 223)

constituents:

footnotes

Brinker F. 1996. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines, rev. 2nd ed., Sandy, Oregon: Eclectic Medical Publications.

Duke, J.A. 1985. C.R.C. Handbook of Medicinal Herbs. Boca Raton, FL: The C.R.C. Press.

Felter, H. W., and Lloyd, J. U. 1983. King's American Dispensatory, Vols. I and II. Portland, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications.

von Oettingen, W.F. 1958. Poisoning: A Guide to Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment. Philadelphia: W.B. Saunders and Company.