Pennyroyal tea, made from Mentha pulegium, is a traditional herbal infusion long used in natural medicine for digestive relief, respiratory comfort, and aromatic wellness. Known for its strong minty aroma and refreshing taste, pennyroyal has a long history in European and Mediterranean herbal traditions and later became popular in Latin American folk medicine.
In this article, you’ll learn what pennyroyal tea is used for, its potential benefits, how to prepare it correctly, safe usage guidelines, and important precautions.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.
What Is Pennyroyal?
Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae), the same family as peppermint and spearmint. It is native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa, and grows easily in mild climates.
Its flavor is similar to peppermint but stronger and more pungent, with a slightly spicy edge. Traditionally, the leaves and flowers are used for herbal preparations.
Botanical Overview
- Scientific name: Mentha pulegium
- Family: Lamiaceae
- Common names: Pennyroyal, European pennyroyal
- Parts used: Leaves and flowers
- Plant type: Perennial herb
- Pennyroyal Herb Cut and Sifted – 28 grams
- Botanical Name: Mentha pulegium
- Country of origin: Spain
Active Compounds in Pennyroyal
Pennyroyal contains several bioactive compounds responsible for its aroma and effects, including:
- Pulegone (main essential oil component)
- Menthol
- Flavonoids
- Tannins
- Thymol
⚠️ Because pulegone can be toxic in high doses, pennyroyal must be used with caution and never in concentrated forms without professional guidance.
Benefits of Pennyroyal Tea
1. Digestive Support
Pennyroyal tea is traditionally used to help relieve:
- Indigestion
- Gas and bloating
- Mild stomach cramps
- Nausea
Its carminative action helps relax the digestive tract and reduce gas formation.
2. Respiratory Comfort
Thanks to its expectorant and aromatic properties, pennyroyal tea may help ease:
- Colds and flu symptoms
- Cough
- Bronchial congestion
- Sinus pressure
It is often used as a warm infusion or steam inhalation during respiratory discomfort.
3. Mild Relaxing Effect
When consumed in small amounts, pennyroyal tea may promote:
- Relaxation
- Reduced nervous tension
- Improved sleep quality
It is sometimes blended with calming herbs such as chamomile or fennel.
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How to Prepare Herbal Teas Properly
4. Antiseptic and Antimicrobial Properties
Traditionally, pennyroyal has been used externally as:
- Compresses
- Herbal washes
- Sitz baths
Its antimicrobial compounds may help with minor skin or mucosal irritations.
5. Natural Insect Repellent
Dried pennyroyal leaves and its aroma have been historically used as a natural insect repellent, especially against mosquitoes.
⚠️ Essential oil should never be used internally.
Safety Notes and Contraindications
Despite its traditional use, pennyroyal requires special caution.
❌ Do NOT use pennyroyal if you are:
- Pregnant (risk of uterine stimulation and miscarriage)
- Breastfeeding
- A child
- Living with liver or kidney disease
⚠️ Never consume pennyroyal essential oil.
⚠️ Avoid long-term or high-dose use of the tea.
Always consult a healthcare professional before using pennyroyal regularly.
How to Prepare Pennyroyal Tea Safely
The safest way to use pennyroyal is as a light infusion, never boiled directly.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon fresh or dried pennyroyal leaves
- 1 cup (200 ml) filtered water
Preparation Method (Infusion)
- Heat the water until hot but not boiling (about 195°F / 90°C).
- Turn off the heat and add the leaves.
- Cover and steep for 10 minutes.
- Strain and drink warm.
Recommended intake:
- Up to 1–2 cups per day, short-term only.
👉 Learn more:
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Herbal Combinations
Pennyroyal may be blended (in very small amounts) with other herbs:
- Fennel – digestive support
- Chamomile – relaxation
- Mint – respiratory comfort
- Ginger – cold and flu support
Other Traditional Uses
Besides tea, pennyroyal has been used as:
- Steam inhalation for congestion
- Warm compresses for muscle discomfort
- Aromatic culinary herb, used sparingly in Mediterranean cuisine
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Continue Learning About Herbal Teas
You may also enjoy:
- Ginger Tea: Benefits and How to Prepare
- Chamomile Tea: Uses and Proper Preparation
- Fennel Tea: Digestive Support and Uses
- Mint Tea: Respiratory and Digestive Relief
Final Thoughts
Pennyroyal tea is a strong, aromatic herbal infusion with a long history in traditional medicine. When used carefully, occasionally, and in small amounts, it may offer digestive and respiratory comfort.
However, due to its potential toxicity when misused, pennyroyal should always be treated with respect, proper preparation, and clear safety boundaries.
Prepare your tea the right way
If you plan to use this plant to make tea, use the Nutritive Blog tea infusion timer. Proper infusion time helps preserve active compounds and ensures better results.
Author Box
Written by Alexandre Zorek, graduate in Business Administration, nutrition student, and postgraduate in Botany.
A passionate lover of orchids, photography, and natural food — and father of Bianca and Beatriz — he shares trustworthy and practical knowledge about plants, fruits, teas, and vegetables.
