Evidence supporting the use of: European Pennyroyal
For the health condition: Cramps (menstrual)

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

European Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) has a long history of traditional use for supporting menstrual health and alleviating cramps. Historical records from ancient Greek and Roman times, as well as medieval European herbal texts, describe pennyroyal as an emmenagogue—an herb that stimulates menstrual flow. Practitioners of traditional herbal medicine used pennyroyal tea or infusions to relieve menstrual discomfort, promote menstruation, and address irregular cycles. The herb contains volatile oils such as pulegone, which are believed to have antispasmodic properties that might help reduce muscle cramps, including those associated with menstruation.

However, clinical evidence to support the effectiveness of pennyroyal for menstrual cramps is lacking. There are no robust, modern scientific studies specifically evaluating its efficacy or safety for this use. Most references to its benefit derive from anecdotal reports and historical usage. Moreover, pennyroyal oil is known to be highly toxic, potentially causing severe liver and kidney damage, and should never be used internally due to the risk of poisoning.

In summary, while there is a strong tradition of using European pennyroyal for menstrual cramps, this use is not supported by scientific validation and carries significant safety concerns. Safer, evidence-based alternatives are recommended for managing menstrual discomfort.

More about European Pennyroyal
More about Cramps (menstrual)

Products containing European Pennyroyal

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.