Infusion of pennyroyal mint It is one of those infusions that our grandparents were very fond of and that is still a good resource to have after dinner when you don't want a coffee. It is usually found in almost any restaurant, and its pleasant taste It is appreciated after a good meal. To learn more, you can consult the uses of this plant.
However, pennyroyal infusion is much more than that, and is often, without a doubt, wasted. It is known to be digestive, and that adds one more good reason to take it after eating, but its We take care of your rental property in Valencia. They go much further. More information about their features can be found in their .
In addition, we can enhance them by combining pennyroyal with other plants that accentuate some We take care of your rental property in Valencia. or others.
What is pennyroyal?
Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) It is a perennial plant, erect or lying, which can reach up to 50 cm in height and is very aromatic. Its leaves are opposite, elliptical, covered with a fine hairiness and emanate an intense minty fragrance when crushed. The flowers are pale pink and cluster in compact, globose whorls in the leaf axils. For more effective use, it's advisable to check the flowers of this plant.
FOR medical uses, the entire plant is collected, which can be found dry for infusion. Contains a essential oil which includes compounds such as menthol, pulegone, isopulegone, piperitenone and limonene, as well as bitter beginnings and tannins.
In the past, it had been used as slimming; it was said that taken with wine it acted as an antidote to snake bites, and mixed with vinegar, it served to revive someone after a faint.
Pennyroyal: properties and benefits
- Infusions of this plant are one of the best-known and most appreciated digestive tonics.
- For a long time, it has been a very effective resource for whet the appetite, aid digestion, and combat abdominal pain caused by gastrointestinal spasms and other digestive disorders, such as vomiting and diarrhea. It can be considered one of the most useful.
- It's a good remedy for gas and flatulence, as well as to eliminate the bad breath.
- Pennyroyal is very effective also to promote the secretion of bile and facilitate the removal of gallstones.
- In addition, it is used as a remedy to end occasional constipation.
- En external application, the infusion and essential oil have been used in folk medicine as a vulnerary and healing on superficial wounds, blisters and non-bleeding scratches.
How to prepare pennyroyal
In addition to taking a simple pennyroyal infusion after meals to aid digestion, there are various combinations that can be made to enhance its properties. Phytotherapy, the plant has been included in many traditional formulas to make digestive and laxative teas, to which it contributes its characteristic minty aroma.
1. Pennyroyal infusion with anise for gas
As a carminative formula, it is recommended combine pennyroyal with anise and two antispasmodic plants, chamomile and lemon verbena, in equal parts. Boil the contents of one level tablespoon per serving of water for one minute and let it simmer. 10 minutes infusion. It should be taken a hot cup after each meal, especially if digestion has been slow and heavy. Combining pennyroyal with these herbs is recommended for those seeking to improve their .
2. Pennyroyal and marshmallow infusion for constipation
Pennyroyal is also used as a remedy for end occasional constipationIt is combined, in equal parts, with four plants with recognized laxative properties: buckthorn, psyllium, marshmallow, and dandelionBoil the equivalent of one level tablespoon of the mixture per cup of water for 3 minutes, infuse for 10 minutes, and strain. Drink three glasses a day, the last one minutes before bedtime, always accompanied by a generous intake of water.
3. Pennyroyal infusion with feverfew for migraines
To relieve migraines that originate from digestive disorders affecting the liver or gallbladder, you can try Pennyroyal infusion with feverfew, ginkgo, and dandelion, in equal parts. Boil for just a minute and keep 10 more at rest. It should be taken twice a day, on an empty stomach, mid-morning and mid-afternoon, until the discomfort disappears. To disguise the somewhat bitter taste of the herbal tea, you can add a teaspoon of rosemary honey.
4. Pennyroyal and dandelion infusion for gallstones
Pennyroyal is also very effective in promoting bile secretion and facilitating the elimination of gallstones. In this case, you can make an infusion combining it with three gallbladder-protective plants: dandelion, rosemary and fumitory. Follow the same instructions as in the previous formula, drinking one cup after meals.
Additional uses and precautions for pennyroyal
Pennyroyal has been used throughout history to treat various ailments. In addition to the uses mentioned above, pennyroyal is considered an excellent antiseptic and anti-inflammatory, used in folk medicine to relieve the symptoms of colds and flu. It is also attributed with calming properties, which help to reduce anxiety and stress.
However, it is crucial to take into account the contraindications. Although pennyroyal can be beneficial in many situations, improper use can lead to adverse effects. For example, excessive consumption of pennyroyal, especially its essential oil, can be toxic and irritating for the digestive system and liver. It is important to avoid its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as well as in Small childrenFor more information on its effects, you can consult the .
Side effects can include:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Allergic reactions
Pennyroyal is a medicinal plant with multiple properties that can benefit us in improving our digestion and general well-being. Use pennyroyal correctly, either as an infusion or in combination with other Herbs, can be a valuable addition to our daily diet. However, it's always advisable to consult a specialist before incorporating new herbs into our routine to ensure proper and safe use.
