Catnip Herb

Many people often wonder, why is the herb called catnip. The perennial herb is the member of the mint family Labiatae. Catnip is also known by its Latin name Nepeta cataria. It is known as catnip, as it can attract and change the behavior of the members of the feline family. The Latin name cataria stands for 'cat'. There are many uses that include calming of jittery nerves and soothing an upset digestive tract.

Information

Catnip is an aromatic herb that is native to Europe and has been introduced in North America. The plant can reach a height of three feet and is characterized by the square stems and fuzzy gray green leaves similar to mint family plants. Catnip plant is grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and it produces small white flowers that have purple spots in late summer.

The uses were known by the Roman doctors, who used it to treat many medical ailments. In Middle Ages, the uses also included combating leprosy, colds, coughs and sore throats.

Remedies from the Herb

There are many uses that include use as a digestive aid, sedative and tranquilizer. There is a remedy for treating stomach problems. The best remedy is drinking catnip tea or infusion.

Tea
You need to steep two teaspoons of dried catnip that includes leaves and flowering tops in 1 cup of boiling water. You should steep it for 10 to 20 minutes and strain the liquid. You can add some honey to sweeten the tea. Never add the herb directly into the boiling water. This will cause the destruction of the healing components of the herb. You should pour boiling water over the herb and allow it to steep for a few minutes. You can consume about 3 cups a day and drink it immediately.

Uses for Humans

Now that you know how to make the tea, let us talk about the uses. Catnip infusion is used for relaxing tense muscles, relieving indigestion, gas, menstrual cramps and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It is also known to be a useful decongestant and expectorant. The catnip topical creams are used as skin antiseptics, poultice for wounds and bruises and as a mosquito repellent.

The oil is used for treating nervousness, anxiety and insomnia. A chemical called nepetalactone found in catnips, has sedative effects on human beings. This sedative effect is very useful in palliating the pain due to migraine. Sometimes, uses also includes treating the swelling due to arthritis and hemorrhoids. It is also used as an antibiotic, antispasmodic, astringent, anti-rheumatic and carminative herb.

Side Effects

Catnip is considered to be a safe and non-toxic herb. It can be taken by anyone without any kind of major side effects. However, due to its sedative properties, one should avoid it before driving or operating machines. Pregnant and nursing women should avoid taking catnip. In very rare instances, it may cause an upset stomach. If you experience this effect, decrease the dose. Also, make sure you take the herb only under the supervision of a medical or herbal practitioner. Never exceed the recommended dose under any circumstances.

Uses for Cats

There are many uses of the herb for cats. It is said that cats sniff and lick a catnip before eating it. The sniffing helps in creating a high in the cat and eating catnip helps release more of nepetalactone that causes that stimulating effect in cats. It makes the cat feel good and indulge in playing, chasing and hunting activities. Catnip herb acts a recreational herb for cats. The effects differs from cat to cat.

This was some information related to the herb. You can bring home a catnip and see your kitty energized with playful energy. Cats love the herb and I am sure you too will enjoy drinking the herbal tea.