Catnip-May 2009

BOTANICAL NAME: Nepeta cataria

FAMILY: Lamiaceae

HERBAL APPLICATIONS:
Dried Herb: Intoxicating treat for cats. However, the effect on humans is the exact opposite! It is sedative to humans. Tea is used extensively for children to manage overexcitement, colic and other digestive upset, and to help the body manage colds and flu. The tea is a gently relaxing drink for all ages, and helps the body break a fever and detoxify during periods of illness.

Essential oil. For humans only. The essential oil is a very effective insect repellent, though it is best mixed in very small amounts with other insect repellent oils such as lemon eucalyptus, peppermint and geranium. The aroma of catnip oil is pretty nasty all by itself. DO NOT USE FOR CATS! While the dried herb is safe, cats have no way to metabolize essential oils. Use of essential oils with cats can permanently injure or kill them.

Catnip is a classic herb for both cats and kids. It is interesting that the same chemical component of the plant that sends cats into such a frenzy actually calms human beings.

A very weak catnip tea, administered by the teaspoon, is a time-honored remedy for colicky babies and kids with upset stomachs. The relaxing properties of the tea help to calm the distress of digestive problems. This herb used to be a household staple.

For adults, catnip tea is great for breaking up gas and flatulence, and is mildly relaxing.

During times of cold and flu, catnip tea promotes a strong sweat, which helps rid the body of toxins produced by the illness.

Catnip essential oil (which must NOT be used on cats, see above) is a fierce insect repellent. The major problem is that it smells dreadful to most people. Fortunately, it mixes well with nice-smelling insect repellent oils such as lemon eucalyptus, peppermint and geranium. A very little bit of catnip oil goes a long, long way.

Catnip is easily grown in the garden, and comes back year after year. It is a very invasive plant, so we suggest growing it in a deep container to keep it from taking over a large part of your garden.