Along with the many benefits of catnip for humans, cats are especially attracted by the aroma of this plant, and perhaps they also use catnip as a medicinal herb. Catnip tea’s benefits resemble peppermint, although it is not as aromatic. Catnip has been passed over recently. However, it has interesting properties.
- CATNIP LEAF – This aromatic herb is native to Central Europe, and has found its way to most of the Northeast United States. Loved by both house cats and gardeners worldwide, and adds a unique touch to the herbal repertoire.
Scientific Facts
- Scientific Name: Nepeta cataria L.
- Other Names: Catmint, catnip, catswort, field balm.
- French: Cataire, herbe aux chats.
- Spanish: Nébeda, menta de gatos.
- Environment: Rocky, unfarmed soils of Europe and North America.
- Description: Vivacious plant of the Labiatae family, growing from 20 to 60 cm high, with pink or yellowish flowers (unlike balm). The whole plant gives off a typical peppermint scent.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally: The leaves and the flower clusters.
Health Benefits
The whole plant contains an essence rich in carvacrol, thymol, lactone, and nepetalic acid. It has antispasmodic, antidiarrheic, carminative (eliminates intestinal gas), and pectoral properties. It is mainly used to alleviate diarrhea and its colic pain and to treat the antiflatulent and pectoral symptoms of bronchial catarrh.
Catnip is an excellent remedy for children and infants with stomach cramps, nervousness, or gas problems. This plant is a children’s herb, but it also benefits adults. It is well known for its mild and soothing effect on the nervous system and for reducing tension. Catnip helps treat diarrhea, chronic bronchitis, mumps, and painful swellings. This plant can be utilized as an enema to eliminate and expel worms. Headaches caused by indigestion can be treated by drinking tea.
Herbalists typically recommend a catnip enema to tone and restore the bowels gently. When combined in tea with lemon balm, spearmint, and chamomile, it is a fantastic healing and calming beverage for children and a remedy for insomnia.
The plant is also recommended for urine retention, smallpox, mumps, morning sickness, insomnia, hysteria, headaches, diarrhea, gas, fevers, dizziness, bronchitis, and colds. It hastily reduces fevers whenever taken as a tea enema. It also helps stimulate the appetite. Use the herb as a fomentation for painful swellings and mumps.
How to use Catnip
Infusion – Steep for five to fifteen minutes. Take one ounce to one cup as needed (do not boil the herb). Tincture – Take ½ to one teaspoon as needed. Fluid Extract – Take ¼ to one teaspoon as needed. Powder – Take five to ten #0 capsules (30 to 60 grains) daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can catnip indeed induce a sense of calm in humans?
The plant contains nepetalactone, which may have mild sedative effects. Some people find that catnip tea or preparations have a calming influence, promoting relaxation and possibly helping with sleep issues.
Does the plant have benefits for digestion?
Traditionally, it has been used to soothe an upset stomach. It may have antispasmodic properties, potentially reducing gas, bloating, and cramps. However, more scientific evidence is needed to confirm these digestive benefits.
Can catnip tea help with anxiety?
While animal studies suggest the plant can reduce anxiety, there is limited research on humans. The herb’s potential calming effects might indirectly lower some individuals’ feelings of stress.
Are there historical uses of the plant in traditional medicine?
Various cultures use the plant to treat conditions such as coughs, fevers, nervousness, and menstrual irregularities. However, it’s essential to check with a healthcare license before using catnip to address any specific health concern.
Could catnip work as a natural insect repellent?
Nepetalactone is a more effective insect repellent than DEET (a common commercial repellent ingredient). Studies are ongoing to explore its potential in this field.
Can catnip enhance mood?
The plant’s calming qualities could indirectly improve mood in some individuals, especially when anxiety or stress is a factor. However, its direct mood-boosting effects are not well established.
Is catnip safe to consume for everyone?
The plant is generally considered safe for most adults in moderate amounts. However, it’s best to avoid it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It’s always advisable to speak to your doctor before incorporating any new herb into your wellness routine, mainly if you take medication or have existing health conditions.
What’s the best way to use catnip for health purposes?
The most common way to make tea is by steeping dried leaves in hot water. Tinctures and capsules are also available.
Are there any potential side effects of catnip?
For most people, it is well-tolerated. Sometimes, slight side effects may include headache, drowsiness, or upset stomach (especially with large doses).
Where can I find reliable information and research on catnip?
Here are some credible sources to explore:
1. National Institutes of Health (NIH)
2. WebMD
3. Healthline
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. Vols. 1 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 367. Print.
- Vance Ferrell Harold M. Cherne, M.D. The Natural Remedies Encyclopedia [Book]. – Altamont, TN: Harvestime Books, 2010. – Vol. Seventh Edition: 7: pp. 149, 150.
- WebMD – https://www.webmd.com/diet/catnip-tea-health-benefits
- Healthline – https://www.healthline.com/health/catnip-tea
- Additional Research Papers and Resources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
- Google Scholar https://scholar.google.com/
Last update on 2024-04-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API