American pennyroyal (as opposed to its cousin, European pennyroyal) is an herb belonging to the vast mint family. It makes a flavorful tea, which is therapeutic as well – good for treating colds, constipation, headaches, sleeplessness, and delayed menstruation. American Indian women drank pennyroyal tea as a birth control measure. The herb is most useful as an insect repellent; grow it by your door to repel mosquitoes, or by the doghouse to scare the fleas, or put the dried leaves in closets to ward off moths. Pennyroyal leaves rubbed on the skin may protect you from insects. For tea, steep 1 tablespoon leaves in 2 cups boiling water; strain and serve.
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