Poejo is a medicinal plant, also known as peppermint, widely used as a digestive and to fight colds and flu.
This plant is very aromatic and is often found in humid places, on the banks of rivers or streams. The pennyroyal has an intense and penetrating aroma, as it is astringent, contracts the tissues and tends to dry the mucous membranes, when in contact with the mouth it can produce a feeling of roughness.
Its scientific name is Mentha Pulegium and can be purchased at health food stores, street markets or drugstores.
What is it for
The pennyroyal serves to fight the flu and the cold, cough, lack of appetite, poor digestion, heartburn, gas, intestinal colic, runny nose, phlegm, bronchitis, asthma, intestinal worms, fever, delayed menstruation.
How to use
The parts used are its leaves, stems and flowers.
- Poejo tea: Place 10 grams of leaves in a pot and cover with 200 ml of boiling water. Smother until warm, strain and then drink. Take 2 to 3 cups a day.
The pennyroyal can be used in cooking to season savory dishes, such as fish dishes, açorda, infusion, liqueur, flavored olive oil, in meat dishes, and also sweet dishes such as pudding, pie, jam and fruit salad.
The crushed leaves can be used to apply to wounds because it acts as a refreshing and antiseptic. The crushed leaves act as a natural repellent to ward off flies, mosquitoes, ants and moths.
properties
The properties of pennyroyal include its digestive, stimulating, stomach tonic, sweating, astringent, emenagogue, febrifugal, expectorant, carminative and vermifugal properties.
Side effects
Side effects include miscarriage and respiratory arrest when consumed in excess.
When not to be used
Pennyroyal is contraindicated for children under 12 and pregnant women.
