Evidence supporting the use of: Pennyroyal (unspecified)
For the health condition: Dysmenorrhea

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium or Hedeoma pulegioides) has a long history of traditional use for various gynecological complaints, including dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation). Historical records from European, Middle Eastern, and early American herbal texts note its use as an emmenagogue—an agent believed to stimulate menstrual flow and relieve menstrual pain. The traditional rationale rests on pennyroyal's reputed ability to relax uterine muscles and promote menstrual bleeding, thus alleviating cramping and pain associated with dysmenorrhea.

However, there is a lack of modern clinical research validating these effects. The available scientific literature is limited to in vitro and animal studies, which suggest that certain constituents (such as pulegone) may have muscle-relaxant effects, but these findings do not directly translate to proven efficacy or safety in humans for dysmenorrhea. Moreover, pennyroyal is associated with significant toxicity, particularly due to its volatile oil content, which can cause liver and kidney damage, and even death, if consumed in excess.

In summary, while pennyroyal’s use for dysmenorrhea is supported by historical tradition, there is little to no scientific validation for this application, and safety concerns further limit its use. It should not be used as a home remedy due to its potential for serious toxicity.

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