ROTT N CHATTER, February 1993, Volume 1 Number 7

 

                          ***PENNYROYAL***

 

   If you are a label reader, then you have read "pennyroyal" on your

various flea repellent products.  Also advocates for 'natural' products

recommend using pennyroyal to avoid harse chemicals.  What you may not know

is pennyroyal can be FATALLY toxic if used carelessly.

   Pennyroyal oil is a natural product derived from a weed appearing plant

with a strong pungent odor. There is actually a logical connection

between pennyroyal and fleas.  As Dr. Margaret Sudekum of Michigan State

University points out, the Latin name for pennyroyal is Hedeoma pulegioides,

derived from the Latin pulex, which happens to mean flea.  It has a rather

long history of various uses in human folklore medicine (aborting pregnancy

in humans is just one such use).

   With pennyroyal so readily available in flea shampoos, flea powders and

as a pure oil, the team headed by Dr. Sudekum advises veterinarians and

owners to be aware of the possible toxic hazards that can exist when these

products are used.  Unfortunately, there is no antidote available to treat

suspected pennyroyal toxicosis.  However, Dr. Sudekum stresses that in the

case of a suspected overdose, the animal should be washed thoroughly with a

mild detergent and the shampooing must be repeated until no residue can be

detected.  Liver damage can occur rapidly (within 24 hours), so the dog

must be monitored closely.  Plasma or blood transfusions may also be

necessary.

   Never combine products containing pennyroyal without first consulting

your veterinarian.

               DON'T LET 'PENNY' ROYAL BECOME POUND FOOLISH.