What You Need to Know About Pennyroyal

(Page 2 of 2)

Oct. 10, 2008
By Barbara Pleasant 
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Obviously, there are good reasons to leave pennyroyal oil alone. However, the pennyroyal plant itself, as the most pungent member of the mint family, may have several good uses around your house.

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As a flea deterrent. Dried pennyroyal leaves can be scattered around pets' bedding area, and you can roll up some fresh stems in you dog's bandana before you go tromping through the woods. Pennyroyal oil used in flea collars has largely been phased out because it caused miscarriages in cats, so only use the fresh leafy stuff, please. If a pet or person could be expecting, don't use pennyroyal at all.

As a pest repellent. Crushed pennyroyal stems stuck in your hat and pockets really will repel gnats and mosquitoes. Dog owners often see their dogs rolling in pennyroyal patches, and dog instincts can usually be trusted.

In the garden. We've heard from folks who have successfully kept flea beetles off of eggplant by underplanting the eggplant with pennyroyal, and it may be of use as a companion plant to other pest-prone crops, too. If you have worked with pennyroyal as a companion crop, please share your experiences in the comments section below. Should you decide to try intercropping with pennyroyal, be aware that pennyroyal can be invasive, though it's not as thuggish as other mints.

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  • rosemary 10/16/2008 8:35:58 PM

    where can i find or buy pennyroyal plants??? i can't let my cats out without giving them a daily bath. please let me know where..... thank you

  • Clare 10/13/2008 2:11:46 PM

    Hi,
    It is the oil of pennyroyal that is toxic. Chickens will most likely just leave the plants alone. My chickens leave my catnip plants completely alone but they sure liked the basil right next to it.
    I had pennyroyal planted where ants had formed a line into the house and after the pennyroyal was there, no more ants!

  • Valerie 10/12/2008 10:46:16 AM

    Very informative article. I also had read many years ago that Pennyroyal was used in foot paths of castle gardens because of it's aroma when stepped on.
    I have free ranging chickens and wonder if they are also susceptible if accidentally ingesting Pennyroyal?

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