Apothecary
Pennyroyal.
Mentha pulegium
Also known as Lurk-in-the-Ditch, Pudding Grass, Fleabane
Lurk-in-the-Ditch, the small mint that smells of strength. A potent travel-protection herb — but one to be handled only with the fullest knowledge of its danger; pennyroyal kills as easily as it protects, and is never to be taken internally.
Correspondences
Element
Fire
Planet
Mars/Venus
Zodiac
Aries
Chakra
Root, Sacral
Parts Used
Aerial parts
Harvest
Summer
Practice
Magical Properties
Protection (especially during travel), peace, strength, exorcism
Wear or carry to prevent travel sickness and protect during journeys. Place in shoes to ward off exhaustion. Use in protection workings against negative influences.
Mundane
Mundane Uses
Historically used as a uterine stimulant, flea repellent, and insecticide.
Devotion
Deity Associations
Demeter
History
Folklore & History
Called 'Lurk-in-the-Ditch' because it grows in low, wet places. Tragically, several women died in the 20th century after using pennyroyal tea as an abortifacient.
Safety
Safety Notes
DANGEROUS. Contains high levels of pulegone which is severely hepatotoxic and can cause fatal liver and kidney failure. NEVER take internally. Avoid all skin contact with concentrated preparations. Keep away from pets.
This information is provided for educational and magical reference only. Always consult a qualified practitioner before using herbs medicinally.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pennyroyal used for in witchcraft?
Pennyroyal is traditionally used in workings for protection (especially during travel), peace, strength, exorcism. Wear or carry to prevent travel sickness and protect during journeys.
What element is Pennyroyal associated with?
Pennyroyal is associated with the Fire element and the sign of Aries, and resonates with the Root, Sacral chakras.
What planet rules Pennyroyal?
Pennyroyal is ruled by Mars/Venus. In the classical planetary system, this gives the herb its characteristic energetic signature and indicates which workings it most readily amplifies and which planetary hours best suit it.
Is Pennyroyal safe to use?
Some care is required when working with Pennyroyal. DANGEROUS. Contains high levels of pulegone which is severely hepatotoxic and can cause fatal liver and kidney failure. NEVER take internally. Avoid all skin contact with concentrated preparations. Keep away from pets. The information here is provided for educational and magical reference only — always consult a qualified practitioner before using any herb medicinally.
In Your Practice
Track your work with Pennyroyal.
Record spells, rituals, and observations in your private digital grimoire.
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