Herb
Pennyroyal
Pennyroyal is a potent mint relative (Mentha pulegium) with a sharp, medicinal aroma historically used in small amounts for teas and savoury stuffings. Culinary use is limited and cautionary because concentrated pennyroyal oil is toxic. When used at all in modern kitchens, it is as a rare traditional flavouring in tiny leaf quantities—not as a casual mint substitute. European and American pennyroyals differ; cooks should verify species and safety guidance.
Also known as: Pennyroyal
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History
Pennyroyal was recorded in classical herbals as a strong aromatic mint-like plant.
English cookery occasionally used pennyroyal in puddings and stuffings before safer mints dominated.
Medical warnings reduced culinary pennyroyal use; spearmint and peppermint replaced it.
Pennyroyal persists mainly as a historical and ethnobotanical herb with limited kitchen use.