Information On Catnip Herbs

Catnip (Catnip nepeta cataria) is commonly known for its mysterious effect on cats. But these herbs are not just for our feline furry fellows. They are also very useful to people.

Catnip originated from Europe and is a member of the mint family. Many consider it as a weed because they propagate rapidly. These herbs are made of grayish green leaves with a small white flower that blooms during the summer season.

It’s been over 2000 years since catnip was discovered. Since then, it has been used for culinary purposes and as an herbal medicine. Catnip got its name because cats like nipping on it and they like to roll on it, hence the name given kitten catnip. Cats also like to crush it because these herbs release oil, which they are fond of. Catnip plant oil is one of the main features that benefits us as well.

Catnip plant is a culinary herb which adds flavor to soups and sauces. It is also made as a mild mint tea that provides a calming effect on people. Its fresh shoots are good for spring salads and it is also used to rub on meat for flavoring.

Drinking cat-nip before bed time alleviates insomnia, other sleeping problems and relieves stress so acting like a medicine without the side effects. Strong catnip tea relieves fever caused by colds and flu. It can also calm the stomach and stop diarrhea (catnip colic) and nausea. The mild juice of the catnip herb is an emmenagouge. It helps regulate the menstrual flow for women.

Pregnant women are restricted in drinking catnip herbs in large quantity. Mild catnip tea, however, is good for children who already eat solid foods as long as it is organically grown and pesticide free. It can be also used to relieve colic for babies, nervousness and restlessness. Try this recipe at your home:

CATNIP PLANT/HERBAL MINT CREAM RECIPE

  • 1 cup of boiling water and 2 tbsp. of dried catnip herb
  • Put a heavy cream used for coffee and cocoa drink
  • Serve it warm or cold.  You may put ice to make it a refreshing delight

 

Catnip can also be used for herbal bath. In fact, catnip herbal bath lessens skin irritations. Catnip herbal oil may also be extracted for aromatics. It gives you a refreshing minty scent while taking a bath. Plus, it can be used as a mosquito repellent. Aside from mosquito, its aroma could repel fleas. This herb certainly provides many benefits to human kind. As a bonus, catnip cures dandruff; repels cockroaches and gets rid of human worms.

Folklores also said that this herb when planted around your house brings good luck and love. (Certainly is, you will be loved by cats.) And, because it features a beautiful small white, pink tinted or purple flower, it makes a wonderful ornament for your home.

Catnip herbs can also thrive in a well drained poor soil. It loves soil with pH quality of slightly alkaline. Cat-nip plants also grows to partial shade to full sunlight. This herb is like a weed, it is therefore easily grown.

The catnip herb is an excellent choice for an outdoor and indoor herb garden. This herb not only benefits our furry feline friends but most of all, we benefit just as much or even more in some cases.