Whenever we hear about the herb, catnip, we think of its connection to cats. The name catnip was derived from the attraction that most domestic cats have to catnip, and the behaviours they exhibit when given catnip when either rubbing against or eating it, such as rolling on the ground, pawing, licking or chewing the plant; or, when ingesting it, causing drooling, sleepiness, leaping about and purring. Most cat species, including leopards, cougars, lynxes, as well as lions and tigers react in a similar manner. I have several catnip plants in my backyard, and my cat will often chew on the plants. Cat owners give catnip to their pets for the cats’ enjoyment.
Although catnip is beneficial to humans, it does not make us act in strange ways if we were to touch it or ingest it. Catnip belongs to the mint family of plants and is also classified as a medicinal herb. It is a perennial plant, growing 50–100 cm tall (20–40 inches), which blooms from late spring through autumn; it is drought-resistant and grows best in full sunlight. People use catnip in their gardens as an ornamental plant; it is also planted as a repellant against insects such as aphids, mosquitoes and flies.
Catnip’s purple flowers also attract bees and butterflies, thus helping to support their ever-decreasing populations. If you cut the plant back after the first blooming, it will regrow and bloom again. Catnip can spread and take over a garden, so be mindful when planting that you contain it growth.
Unlike many other herbs, catnip is not well known nor as widely used. But, like other herbs, it has a host of health benefits. Historically, the ancient Romans and Egyptians used catnip to treat infections.
The main health benefit of catnip is its calming, relaxing effect on the body; it can reduce stress, anxiety, restlessness, nervousness, and tension headaches. It can also help to boost mood and relieve chronic anxiety when taken regularly. Catnip can be used to treat insomnia by its calming nature—relaxing muscles and reducing tension. “A cup of tea made from catnip herb will quiet the nerves.” –Selected Messages, bk. 2, p. 297
Catnip is able to relieve digestive issues such as constipation and diarrhea. It has the ability to move air quickly through the intestines, relieving the symptoms of gas build-up such as cramping and bloating. It can also regulate the production of bile and gastric juices, which enables us to digest our food. Its anti-inflammatory properties calm the stomach and prevents indigestion.
Catnip helps to fight colds, flus, and other infections by strengthening the immune system. It helps to fight a fever by causing perspiration, and also helping to rid the body of toxins. Breathing in a hot catnip infusion (tea) can relieve nasal and sinus congestion, and the mucous build-up in the nose. Because of its relaxing properties, it can treat croup in children, as well as coughs and asthma symptoms.
Catnip is high in tannins, which work as antiseptics. Using catnip directly on the skin as a poultice allows for a quicker healing of infected wounds, and slowing down bleeding from cuts and scrapes. Tannins assist in the healing of insect bites, burns, hemorrhoids and other skin issues because of its anti-inflammatory properties. Drinking catnip tea can reduce hives.
Pregnant women should not use catnip as it may stimulate the uterus and cause a miscarriage. Because catnip can cause menstruation, women with heavy periods should avoid catnip. Overall, taking too much catnip can cause headaches, vomiting, sluggishness, and an overall feeling of being unwell. A cup of catnip tea daily is adequate to treat any ailments. As with any other herbs, ensure that catnip will not interact with any prescription medications. Always check with your doctor or a naturopath if you have any health conditions that may contraindicate using catnip.
Catnip contains many nutrients such as Vitamin A, B, C, magnesium, iron, calcium, phosphorus, manganese, sodium, selenium, and potassium.
Catnip can be used as a tea, juice, tincture, infusion, or poultice. Cut fresh catnip stems and store them a cool, dry place. Once they are dry, separate the leaves and flowers from the stems and place in an airtight bag. To make catnip tea, mix two tablespoons of dried catnip leaves or flowers in a pot of hot water. Avoid boiling the water as excess heat will reduce its health effects. Add lemon juice and honey, then steep for about 10–15 minutes. Catnip can taste woodsy or grassy; adding a lemon will enhance its minty flavour. Fresh catnip can also be kept fresh by freezing it.