Hedeoma Pulegioides American Herb Oil is the essential oil derived from the herbs of American Pennyroyal (Hedeoma pulegioides, Linn. pro parte, Hudson). This essential oil is known for its strong, minty aroma and its potential therapeutic properties. It contains high levels of pulegone, along with other key components such as ketones and various acids.

Chemical Composition and Structure:

Pulegone: The main component of the oil, up to 85%, which provides a characteristic minty odor and has potential stimulant and antimicrobial effects.
Ketones: Includes two ketones that contribute to the oil’s overall chemical profile and may affect its therapeutic properties.
Acids: Contains acetic, formic, and isoheptanoic acids. These acids can influence the oil’s acidity and contribute to its potential benefits and scent.

Physical Properties:

Appearance: Typically a clear to pale yellow liquid.
Odor: Characteristic of mint with a strong, fresh, and somewhat spicy aroma due to the high pulegone content.
Solubility: Generally soluble in oils and other lipid-based carriers; may also be incorporated into certain aqueous formulations depending on the formulation.
pH: The pH of the essential oil itself is not typically measured; however, its acidity can affect the formulation pH in products.

Production Process:

Harvesting: The herbs of Hedeoma pulegioides are harvested.
Distillation: The harvested herbs undergo steam distillation to extract the essential oil. This process separates the volatile oil from the plant material.
Filtration: The essential oil is filtered to remove any residual plant material or impurities.
Standardization: The oil may be standardized to ensure consistent levels of key components like pulegone.
Formulation: The essential oil is incorporated into various products, including cosmetics and therapeutic formulations.

Applications:

Cosmetics and Skincare: Used in various cosmetic products for its aromatic qualities and potential benefits. It can be added to creams, lotions, and serums for its refreshing scent and properties.
Aromatherapy: Employed in essential oil blends and diffusers for its strong minty aroma and potential therapeutic effects.
Hair Care: Incorporated into shampoos and conditioners for its stimulating and aromatic effects.

Environmental and Safety Considerations:

Environmental Impact: Production should follow sustainable practices to minimize environmental impact and ensure proper management of resources.
Safety: High concentrations of pulegone can be potent and potentially irritating. The essential oil should be used within recommended guidelines to avoid adverse reactions. As with all essential oils, individual reactions such as intolerance or allergy cannot be excluded. The final product should be tested for skin compatibility and used in appropriate concentrations.

INCI:


Perfuming. Unlike fragrance, which can also contain slightly less pleasant or characteristic odours, the term perfume indicates only very pleasant fragrances. Used for perfumes and aromatic raw materials.
Synonyms:

CAS: 98306-02-6 EC number 308-770-2