PENNYROYAL SEEDS

Mentha pulegium

Long abandoned by herbalists, Pennyroyal has become intrinsically associated with its use as an emmenagogue. This very fragrant European mint is rich in the ketone pulegone, which is toxic in doses that can only be obtained via distillation. We do not recommend use of the essential oil of Pennyroyal under any circumstances. Preparations of the fresh or dried herb present little danger to anyone with the exception of young children and pregnant women that wish to stay that way.

Listed in some old herbals and medieval cookery books as “pudding grass", the leaves of Pennyroyal flavored stuffings for meats. As this species grows wild throughout Europe, its use was likely based on it being the mint that was most readily available. Other species of mint are commonly used to flavor meat throughout the world, and those dreaded jars of “mint sauce" at the supermarket are testament to the European tradition of mint with meat, although the favored mint is now peppermint or spearmint and who doesn't love toothpaste with their Sunday roast.

In the wild Pennyroyal is variable in its habit. It can sometimes be found growing prostrate, creating a fragrant and nearly evergreen mat in damp places, wafting its sweet magical aroma as it is trodden upon. The majority of the seed stock available today creates semi-sprawling mounds of foliage, with upright flowering stems to 1' or so. It is among our favorite plants for dry spaces between stones and pavers that see foot traffic -- the dry soil curtails the spread and the potent fragrance is released each time it is brushed or crushed. Super charming and highly recommended for informal landscapes.

The fresh foliage may be cut and dried for tea anytime before the flowers bloom. Pennyroyal tea is made using a simple infusion of just a small spoonful of herb per cup of water. The flavor is much improved with honey or sugar or a single drop of licorice extract. Though the internet would have you believe otherwise, the emmenagogue properties of this tea are negligible. Pennyroyal tea is not an effective abortifacient in quantities typically imbibed for pleasure, although we do not recommend it for pregnant women or children. Tincture of the dried herb will contain higher concentrations of active consituents and should be used very sparingly and mindfully.

Press these seeds into moist soil and mist carefully before covering with plastic. Kept at around 70°F in bright light seeds will germinate over the course of two weeks or so. Prick out seedlings to grow on in individual cells or pots at room temperature in bright light. Snip or pinch young plants with several true leaves to encourage branching. Water sparingly and do not fertilize. Harden off before transplanting into poor dry soils in full or part sun around the date of the last spring frost or in autumn. As with all mints these plants will spread aggressively given rich moist soil and are best grown in pots where they might otherwise become a nuissance.

Packet contains at least 100 seeds.