[Herbalist] Patchouli Oil

[G. Major]

I was under the impression that pennyroyal *oil* shouldn't be taken by *anyone* internally, as it is poisonous. 

  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: wjwakefield at juno.com 
  To: herbalist at ansteorra.org 
  Sent: Friday, February 13, 2004 6:50 PM
  Subject: Re: [Herbalist] Patchouli Oil


  Pennyroyal oil, when taken internally, is a very dangerous abortifacient, which is why pregnant women should avoid it.  But it is safe to use topically to repel insects, as it is not absorbed through the skin.  However, when used on the skin, it should be diluted with a carrier oil (sweet almond, olive, grapeseed, etc) - 10 - 20 drops pennyroyal oil to 1 oz carrier oil.  Undiluted pennyroyal oil can irritate the skin.

  I am not aware of any cautions with patchouli oil.  But I thought its reputation in the east was as an aphrodisiac?  I am not very familiar with it though.

  Other herbs with insect repelling properties include several of the artemisias (wormwood, southernwood, etc.) TOPICALLY; cedar shavings or sawdust as strewing herbs; lavender for washing linens (repels moths); garlic or brewers yeast when eaten...

  HL Suzanna, herbalist


  On Thu, 12 Feb 2004 01:30:06 -0600 "ED Reese" <edreese at m7bedlam.com> writes:
    Pennyroyal comes with the caveat of not for use by pregnant women, or women desiring to be pregnant.

    I've heard that Rosemary is also an effective insect repellent.

    Esther


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