Safe Consumption Guidelines for Money Mint in Traditional Medicine

How to safely consume pennyroyal?

My sister has been seriously ill (in the intensive care unit for nearly a month, intubated for 25 days, and in a general ward for a month and a half) and has narrowly escaped death.
After about a month in the general ward, she suddenly started to speak unclearly, making it very difficult to understand her.
During this time, she underwent laryngeal imaging and CT scans, all of which showed no issues.
Four months later, a brain scan also showed no problems, and the hospital could not determine the cause.
It is suspected to be a sequela of a stroke, and we are considering using peppermint for maintenance and recovery.
We would like to consult a physician regarding the safety dosage of peppermint for daily consumption: how much fresh peppermint can be consumed per day in grams? What is the daily usage amount in grams for dried peppermint when making tea? Can it be consumed or drunk daily, and if so, for how long should it be taken before needing to stop? We appreciate your guidance on this matter.
Thank you very much.

Huan Si, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/07/02

Dr. Lü Bingcheng reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

First of all, if your sister wants to actively treat the sequelae of a stroke, it is recommended that in addition to rehabilitation therapy, she should also seek acupuncture and herbal treatment from a qualified traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioner after a proper diagnosis.
It is not advisable to rely solely on a single herbal remedy, such as Mentha haplocalyx (also known as money mint), for the long-term treatment of speech disorders.
According to the Compendium of Chinese Medicinal Herbs, the effects of Mentha haplocalyx include "clearing heat and detoxifying, promoting diuresis and dissolving stones, invigorating blood circulation and dispersing stasis, and lowering blood pressure and alleviating pain." It is primarily used to treat conditions such as colds, headaches, carbuncles, and damp-heat jaundice, among others.

There is indeed a folk belief that fresh Mentha haplocalyx juice can be used to treat stroke; however, stroke sequelae patients should only use Mentha haplocalyx if they meet the aforementioned conditions and constitution.
Some TCM practitioners do not recommend using Mentha haplocalyx alone and suggest combining it with other herbal ingredients to create a compound formula.
Therefore, it is advised that Mr.
Huan Si consult a qualified TCM practitioner for treatment once your sister's condition stabilizes and she is ready for discharge, and for the time being, she should refrain from taking Mentha haplocalyx alone to maintain her health.

Reply Date: 2023/07/02

More Info

When considering the safe consumption guidelines for Money Mint (also known as "Pennyroyal" or Mentha pulegium) in traditional medicine, it is essential to approach this herb with caution, especially given your sister's medical history and current condition.
Money Mint has been traditionally used for various purposes, including digestive issues, respiratory problems, and as a mild sedative. However, it is crucial to note that this herb can have potent effects and may pose risks, particularly in certain populations or when consumed in excessive amounts.

Safe Consumption Guidelines
1. Fresh vs. Dried Forms:
- Fresh Money Mint: The fresh leaves can be consumed in small amounts, typically around 1-2 grams per day. This is a conservative estimate, as the potency can vary based on the plant's growing conditions and preparation methods.

- Dried Money Mint: When using dried leaves to make tea, a common guideline is to use about 1-2 grams of dried leaves per cup of water. It is advisable to limit consumption to 1-2 cups per day.

2. Duration of Use:
- It is generally recommended to use Money Mint for short periods, such as a few weeks, followed by a break. Continuous daily use for extended periods may increase the risk of adverse effects. A common practice is to use it for 2-3 weeks, followed by a week off.

3. Potential Risks:
- Money Mint contains compounds that can be toxic in high doses, particularly pulegone, which can affect the liver and may be harmful. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid excessive consumption.

- Individuals with liver conditions, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those with certain health issues should avoid using Money Mint altogether.

4. Consultation with Healthcare Providers:
- Given your sister's complex medical history, including her recent hospitalization and potential neurological issues, it is vital to consult with a healthcare provider before introducing Money Mint into her regimen. A healthcare professional can provide personalized advice based on her specific health status and any medications she may be taking.

5. Monitoring for Side Effects:
- If Money Mint is introduced, it is essential to monitor for any adverse reactions, such as gastrointestinal upset, allergic reactions, or any changes in her condition. If any concerning symptoms arise, discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare provider.

Conclusion
While Money Mint may offer some benefits in traditional medicine, its use should be approached with caution, especially in individuals with complex health conditions. The recommended dosages are conservative, and it is crucial to prioritize safety by consulting with healthcare professionals. They can provide tailored advice and ensure that any herbal remedies do not interfere with her recovery or existing treatments.

Similar Q&A

Is This Traditional Chinese Medicine Formula Safe for My Father?

Hello: My father bought a bottle of traditional Chinese medicine powder, claiming it is for the care of muscles and bones. I am concerned about whether it would cause any issues if taken. Below is the list of ingredients: Pearl, Malva verticillata, Chuanxiong, Seven Star Lotus, C...

Dr. Qiu Shuize reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
First of all, thank you for your inquiry. 1. Based on the listed medications, if authentic medicinal materials were indeed used, the price of this herbal powder should be considerable. 2. Due to the lack of specified dosages, it is difficult to further assess. However, I woul...

Exploring Traditional Chinese Medicine: Questions on Efficacy and Dependency

Hello, in recent months, I have consulted a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioner for issues related to sexual function. The doctor initially prescribed some pills and powders, and later recommended trying a more effective medication called Yongqintian mixed with a heal...

Dr. Zhuang Yihui reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Hello Mr. K: Each physician has their own medication regimen, so the ingredients must be confirmed with the original physician. Generally, whey protein and traditional Chinese medicine do not have adverse drug reactions; however, based on your personal experience, you may conside...

Daily Consumption of Preventive Tea: Safety and Recommendations for Prostate Health

Hello Dr. Lu, as per the subject, I would like to ask about the anti-epidemic tea. Is it safe to drink every day, and how much can one consume, such as 500ml? We have a stage one breast cancer patient at home, and I am unsure if these ingredients are suitable for her. The ingredi...

Dr. Lü Bingcheng reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
1. It is recommended that individuals who wish to drink the aforementioned preventive herbal tea first consult a qualified Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner to assess their constitution and health status. After the TCM practitioner adjusts the herbs and dosages, a d...

Exploring the Benefits of Moneywort for Migraines and Allergies

Dear Dr. Huang, A. My husband frequently suffers from migraines, which I believe are caused by work-related stress. Recently, my father-in-law gave me some peppermint and suggested that I crush it and mix it with honey for him to drink. I researched online and found that pepperm...

Dr. Huang Yicheng reply Pharmacology
The causes of headaches are quite complex. If headaches occur frequently, it is best to consult a physician to identify the underlying causes and determine the appropriate medication based on individual constitution. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), factors such as wind, he...