Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium or Hedeoma pulegioides) has a long history of being used as a natural insect repellent, especially against mosquitoes and fleas. However, it is also highly toxic if ingested, and its essential oil can be dangerous to pets, children, and even adults in concentrated amounts. So it should be handled carefully.

Here are safe ways you can use pennyroyal for warding off mosquitoes:

🌿 Fresh Plant Method

• Crush the leaves slightly to release their aroma and place them around seating areas, windowsills, or doorways.

• You can also rub fresh leaves on clothing or outdoor furniture (not directly on skin, as it may cause irritation).

🕯️ Sachet or Bundle Method

• Tie dried pennyroyal leaves into small cloth sachets or bundles.

• Hang them near open windows, doors, or outdoor spaces to help keep mosquitoes away.

🕯️ Infusion Spray (Safer than Essential Oil)

1. Boil water and steep a handful of fresh pennyroyal leaves for about 20 minutes.

2. Let it cool, strain, and pour into a spray bottle.

3. Spray lightly around outdoor areas, furniture, or clothing (avoid skin).

🚫 Important Safety Notes

• Do not use pennyroyal essential oil directly on the skin – it can cause rashes, nausea, or worse if absorbed or inhaled in strong amounts.

• Do not ingest pennyroyal in any form (tea, oil, capsules, etc.) – it can be toxic to the liver and kidneys.

• Keep away from pets (especially cats and dogs) – it’s poisonous to them.