Pulegone

Pulegone is a naturally occurring organic compound obtained from the essential oils of a variety of plants such as Nepeta cataria (catnip), Mentha piperita, and pennyroyal. It is classified as a monoterpene. Pulegone is a naturally occurring organic compound obtained from the essential oils of a variety of plants such as Nepeta cataria (catnip), Mentha piperita, and pennyroyal. It is classified as a monoterpene. Pulegone is a clear colorless oily liquid and has a pleasant odor similar to pennyroyal, peppermint and camphor. It is used in flavoring agents, in perfumery, and in aromatherapy. It was reported that the chemical is toxic to rats if a large quantity is consumed. Asekun et al. found that the chemical content of Mentha longifolia L was decreased by the treatments at high temperatures, suggesting that the herb should be oven dried or thoroughly cooked before consumption. Pulegone is also an insecticide − the most powerful of three insecticides naturally occurring in many mint species. As of October 2018, the FDA withdrew authorization for the use of pulegone as a synthetic flavoring substance for use in food, without regard to its continuing stance that this substance does not pose a risk to public health under the conditions of its intended use.