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Pennyroyal
Mentha pulegium
Uses: Culinary/Medicinal/Beverage/Aromatic Duration: Perennial (hardy in zones 6-9)
When to Sow: Spring/Late Summer/Early Fall Ease of Germination: Easy
A low growing spearmint scented herb that produces pale blue blossoms that look like skewerd pink balls appearing mid-late summer attracting bees all the while! Once used medicinally as emmenagogue, with the purpose of initiating and strengthening uterine contractions to stimulate the menstrual process. For this reason its use as an abortifacient was recorded by ancient physicians as well as Nicholas Culpeper, an early herbalist, in his medical text The English Physician. Essential oil is toxic due to pulegone, a liver toxin that after being processed by the liver produces metabolites that wreak havok on the body, ultimately leading to multiple organ failure. Cases of death in women have been recorded throughout history in those attempting to use this herb to stimulate abortions. Mainly used today to relieve tension headaches, anxiety, as well as digestive complaints, stimulating the appetite and digestive enzymes. Recorded in many ancient texts as a cooking herb by the Greeks and Romans although not used for this purpose today. Can be used as an insecticide and pest repellant against fleas and mosquitoes. Can be grown as a groundcover in damp soils in full sun-dappled shade. Has a trailing habit which makes it also a good choice for hanging baskets. Height 1 foot.
S4460 Seeds $3.75/pkt
S4460 Bulk Seeds $50.00/10g, $352.00/100g
Currency: United States Dollar

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