Pennyroyal Dietary Supplement: Uses, Risks, and Safety Tips
Quick fact: pennyroyal oil has been linked to severe liver damage and even fatalities when used as a concentrated supplement. That shock is why this herb needs careful handling. If you're considering pennyroyal for digestion, cramps, or as an insect repellent, read the safety parts first.
What pennyroyal is and how people use it
Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) is a mint-family plant long used as a traditional remedy. People use fresh leaves for small culinary uses, make weak tea from the leaves, take capsules, or use the essential oil for aromatherapy and topical insect repellent. Historically it’s been used for stomach upset and to influence menstrual flow.
There’s a big difference between tiny culinary use and taking concentrated products. Pennyroyal oil is the most dangerous form. Even small amounts of the oil can cause serious problems. Teas and mild culinary uses are lower risk but still not harmless if used often or in large amounts.
Why pennyroyal can be dangerous
Pennyroyal contains pulegone, a chemical the liver breaks down into toxic compounds. That process can damage the liver and kidneys, cause seizures, and lead to severe illness. Because pulegone is toxic, pennyroyal oil is linked to hospitalizations and reported deaths. It’s also known to be dangerous in pregnancy—some people have used it to try to induce abortion, which can cause life-threatening bleeding and organ failure.
What this means for you: avoid essential oil pills, never use high-dose extracts, and never try pennyroyal to end a pregnancy. Also avoid it if you have liver disease, drink heavily, or take drugs processed by the liver (like many prescription meds). If you’re unsure about interactions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
If you want a herbal option for digestion or cramps, pick safer, well-studied plants. Peppermint or ginger tea helps digestion. Chamomile calms cramps and anxiety for some people. For menstrual support, talk to your clinician about proven options like NSAIDs, hormonal choices, or supplements they approve.
If you still plan to try pennyroyal: use only small amounts of fresh leaf as a flavoring, never use the concentrated oil, and don’t give it to children or pregnant people. There’s no standard safe dose, so proceed with caution and medical advice. If you experience nausea, abdominal pain, jaundice (yellow skin/eyes), confusion, or seizures after using pennyroyal, stop immediately and seek emergency care or contact your local poison control center.
Pennyroyal has a history and some uses, but the risks—especially from oil and high-dose products—are real. Choose safer herbs, keep supplements limited, and talk with a healthcare pro before trying pennyroyal for any health issue.
