Herb library

Catnip

Nepeta cataria

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a gentle, mint-family herb long kept in the kitchen and medicine chest for its calming leaf tea and warm compresses. It has a soft, lemony-minty scent and is often used as a simple household remedy for rest and mild tummy upset.

Traditionally used for.

• •Traditionally used as a warm, calming tea for sleeplessness and nervous tension.
• •Long-standing household use for mild digestive upset, such as gas or an uneasy stomach, taken as a soothing infusion.
• •Traditionally used as a gentle topical compress for minor skin irritations and to ease discomfort from insect bites.

Simple preparations.

• •Tea infusion: pour 1 cup (240 ml) just-boiled water over 1 to 2 teaspoons dried catnip leaves, steep 10 minutes, strain, drink up to 3 times daily, 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime for rest.
• •Warm compress: steep 2 tablespoons dried catnip in 1 pint (480 ml) boiling water for 15 minutes, strain, soak a clean cloth, wring lightly, apply to the affected area for 10 to 20 minutes as needed.
• •Syrup for children over one year: make a strong infusion with 1 cup water and 2 tablespoons dried catnip, simmer 5 minutes, strain and stir in 1/2 cup honey while warm; use 1 teaspoon for young children, 1 tablespoon for older children, up to three times daily (do not give honey to children under one year).

Cautions.

• !Some people feel unusually drowsy or sleepy after catnip tea; avoid driving or heavy machinery if you feel impaired.
• !Large amounts may cause nausea or headaches in sensitive individuals; start with a small dose to judge tolerance.
• !Topical use can rarely cause skin irritation; test a small patch first and discontinue if redness or itching occurs.
• !If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking regular medication, check with your doctor before using catnip.

Often kept beside.