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Moumoujus

MENTHA PULEGIUM HERB OIL.

Avoid CAS 90064-00-9 / PERFUMING

Mentha Pulegium Herb Oil, derived from the pennyroyal plant, is an essential oil known for its strong aromatic properties and active constituents like pulegone and menthone. While possessing a range of bioactivities, its significant toxicity profile severely restricts its application in skincare.

Summary

perfuming antioxidant antimicrobial insect repellent anti-inflammatory

Science

Mechanism of Action

This oil's bioactivity is primarily attributed to pulegone and menthone, which contribute to its reported antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, and insecticidal properties. Pulegone may also exhibit anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting IL-1β and IL-18 hypersecretion. However, pulegone is a known enzyme inhibitor and hepatotoxin, converting into the harmful hepatotoxic compound menthofuran upon absorption.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Laboratory studies indicate repellent activity against pests at concentrations of 1.17 µL/cm² (50% repellency) and 2.816 µL/cm² (95% repellency).
  2. 02 An in vitro concentration of 0.021 µL/cm² demonstrated 100% mortality of *Oryzaephilus surinamensis* within 7 hours.
  3. 03 In controlled laboratory settings, concentrations ranging from 0.25% to 32% (v/v) showed antimicrobial efficacy against various bacterial strains, including *Acinetobacter baumannii*.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.4%
Red flag below
0.4%

Due to its high toxicity and significant safety concerns, Mentha Pulegium Herb Oil is not typically 'dusted' for claimed benefits in skincare. Instead, its use is strictly regulated, with the main component pulegone restricted to a maximum of 0.4% in other leave-on cosmetic products under EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 Annex III. Any concentration exceeding this limit, even if intended for marketing claims, presents a significant safety red flag.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

The terpene components within Mentha Pulegium Herb Oil are susceptible to polymerization when exposed to high oxidation levels, which can impact its stability and efficacy.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
0.4%
Pregnancy
Caution
Sensitization risk High

Mentha Pulegium Herb Oil (Pennyroyal oil) is considered highly toxic and its topical use is generally not recommended due to significant risks of skin absorption. The primary active component, pulegone (55-95% of the oil), is converted to the harmful hepatotoxin menthofuran in the body, which can lead to severe liver and kidney damage, nervous system impairment, and potentially fatal outcomes upon ingestion or absorption. Topical application has also been linked to allergic reactions and significant skin irritation. EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 Annex III restricts pulegone to a maximum of 0.4% in leave-on products, 0.8% in rinse-off products, and 1% in oral care products. Due to its severe toxicity, it is not considered safe for use during pregnancy.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy High
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Due to its high toxicity, significant absorption risks, potential for severe organ damage, and strict regulatory restrictions, Mentha Pulegium Herb Oil should be avoided in all skincare formulations.

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