Wild Ginger European vs Mentha Haplocalyx

European forest herb with emetic and expectorant properties used in traditional folk medicine for respiratory conditions and as an emetic. Contains aristolochic acid analog — use with caution.

Aromatic perennial herb native to East Asia used in TCM to disperse wind-heat, clear the head and eyes, and course liver qi.

asarone, asarabacca oil, aristolochic acid analogs, terpenes

menthol, menthone, menthofuran, pulegone, isomenthol

Expectorant for respiratory conditions, Emetic use, Headache treatment, Traditional European folk medicine

wind-heat cold, headache, sore throat, liver qi stagnation, itchy skin

Expectorant, Emetic, Anti-inflammatory

antipyretic, decongestant, carminative, anti-inflammatory

Small doses only; 0.5-1g dried rhizome; use very cautiously

3–6g decoction

Kidney disease (aristolochic acid risk), Pregnancy, Long-term use prohibited

yin deficiency, infant face application of oil, allergy

Nephrotoxicity risk, Nausea, Emesis

cool sensation in GI, skin sensitization from oil