Pennyroyal Essential Oil (Mentha pulegium) - Hazardous Material

Steam-distilled essential oil of Mentha pulegium, Pennyroyal, from Moroccan harvest. This product is offered for traditional external pest-deterrent uses only. Pennyroyal essential oil is one of the most hazardous essential oils on the market; internal consumption has caused multiple deaths.

HAZARDOUS - Read Before Use

Pennyroyal essential oil contains pulegone, which is converted in the liver to menthofuran - a potent hepatotoxin (liver toxin). Internal consumption of even small amounts of pennyroyal essential oil has caused multiple documented deaths from acute liver failure. Pennyroyal oil should never be taken internally, never used during pregnancy under any circumstances (including topical use), and never used around children, pets, or individuals with liver concerns. Use external pest-deterrent applications only with extreme caution and proper dilution.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Mentha pulegium

Family

Lamiaceae (mint family)

Origin

Morocco

Extraction

Steam distillation

Toxic compound

Pulegone (converted to menthofuran in the liver)

Acceptable uses

External pest deterrent (heavily diluted); fragrance for outdoor settings

NEVER for

Internal consumption, pregnancy, children, pets, individuals with liver concerns

About Pennyroyal's History

Pennyroyal has a long European traditional use as a flea-repellent and aromatic herb (the name "pulegium" comes from "pulex," Latin for "flea"). Historical herbal texts also note "abortifacient" use, but this is exactly the hazardous internal use that has caused multiple deaths through liver failure - never appropriate. Modern understanding of pulegone toxicity makes clear that internal pennyroyal use is dangerous.

How to Use (External Pest Deterrent Only)

Heavily dilute (no more than 0.5% in a carrier) for limited external pest-deterrent applications. Never apply to children, pets, or pregnant women. Wash hands after handling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Pennyroyal so dangerous?
The compound pulegone is converted in the liver to menthofuran, a potent liver toxin. Internal consumption has caused multiple documented deaths.

Can I drink Pennyroyal tea?
Pennyroyal essential oil should never be consumed. Even pennyroyal herb tea has caused fatalities; modern herbalism does not recommend internal pennyroyal use.

What is the traditional use of Pennyroyal?
Historical European use as a flea repellent; the name "pulegium" comes from "pulex," Latin for "flea."

Is Pennyroyal safe during pregnancy?
NO. Pennyroyal can cause severe liver damage and pregnancy loss with maternal death.

Why is it still sold?
It has legitimate external pest-deterrent uses; we carry it for users who specifically need it for that purpose.

What's a safer alternative for pest deterrent?
Cedarwood, lemongrass, citronella, and peppermint oils are much safer alternatives.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.