Catnip Leaf Sooths The Digestive System
Catnip Leaf, a member of the mint family, has the official name Nepeta cataria. Fully grown it is about 2′ tall. The leaves, slightly larger than peppermint, are downy above and below. When its essential oil production reaches its peak, catnip is harvested. The leaves and fragrant flowers are then carefully dried to preserve these oils.
A native of Europe, catnip was imported to US and is now a common weed here. Catnip is also called Catmint, Field Balm, Catswort, Catnep, Menta De Gato. Catnip has been used in herbal remedies since at least the 15th century, the most commonly consumed herbal drink in Europe before the importation of teas from the orient. By the 1890’s, Ojibwe native women were using it by the name Gajugensibug. It was prepared as a tea to bring down fevers.
Its name starting with ‘cat’ is not a coincidence. Catnip actually drives cats wild for a short time. Although many cats eat it, they are more interested in the smell than the taste. A cat will bite, chew, rub against, and roll in catnip. This will release the volatile oil trapped in the leaves. This may go on for several minutes, then suddenly the cat will walk away only to return and do it again two hours later. No one knows exactly why cats act this way, but we do know that the chemical nepetalactone in catnip is the trigger. The reaction is not learned, and, though some cats are totally unaffected by it, even large cats like tigers can be sensitive to it.
More importantly, catnip is an herb that helps people. If taken as a hot infusion, catnip promotes sweating. This is beneficial for treating colds, flu, fevers, and infectious diseases. It sooths the nervous system and calms the stomach. Catnip helps with flatulence, diarrhea, and colic. It is sometimes used in a diluted form as an enema to cleanse and heal the lower bowel. Cautious ingestion of catnip can help to prevent a miscarriage and premature birth, even to decrease the effects of morning sickness.
Catnip is great for treating young children. It safely stimulates the body while it settles the stomach and soothes the nerves. In combination with fennel catnip is a great remedy for colic, gas, teething difficulties, and indigestion in children. It is also a great mucus cleanser.
Some also combine it with garlic because of garlic’s ability to fight infections. Together they make a powerful enema. Catnip can also induce sleep and increase perspiration without increasing body temperature, a perfect combination for someone who has a fever. This sedative action on the nerves makes it generally relaxing.
Though essential oils are taken from the flowers, the value of catnip is found in its leaves. These may be purchased dried, cut, and powdered. From these you can make a tea or an extract, or you can sprinkle dried leaves on food. Of course, the dried leaves are also used to make herbal pillows for cats.
Catnip is a safe herb that can be taken by most everyone. Catnip, like most bulk herbs, should be stored in a dark, dry, and cool place. In fact, refrigeration or freezing if possible extends the life of catnips benefits best. The petalactone in catnip is ultraviolet sensitive and, therefore, it is important to keep it out of the sun. Some caution pregnant women not to use it but others say it is both safe and beneficial for expectant mothers.
Just remember to do your due diligence when purchasing from a bulk herbs store. You want to make sure the herbs you purchase will provide you their full benefits.