Pulegone

Molecular formula

C₁₀ H₁₆ O

Molar mass

152.23 g

Physical state

liquid

Solubility

miscible in ethanol, virtually insoluble in water

Occurrence

Pulegone may be found in all parts of the eponymous mentha pulegium and in hemp.

Medicinal properties

Pulegone is harmful to health. It irritates the digestive tract, intact skin, and the mucous membranes and may induce cramps, vomiting, acidosis, and colics. However, this terpene also seems to have pain-relieving, disinfecting, and anti-inflammatory properties. The substance provides an excellent example for the tenet of herbal medicine: „it is the dose that makes the poison.“