Catnip Leaf Helps Those With Colds
Catnip is one of the bulk herbs that is a member of the mint family. Its scientific name is Nepeta cataria. The plant grows to be about 2 feet tall and the leaves, slightly larger than peppermint, are downy above and below. Catnip is harvested and the leaves and flowers dried when this essential oil production reaches its peak.
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.
Catnip got its name by giving cats of all sizes a harmless “high.” Although many cats will eat it, scientists say they’re more interested in the smell than the taste. Felines bite, chew, rub against, and roll in catnip to release the volatile oil trapped in the leaves. The cat will generally go crazy for several minutes. Then suddenly it will lose interest and walk away only to return and do it again two hours later. Although no one knows exactly what happens in the cat’s brain, we do know that the chemical nepetalactone in catnip is what triggers the response. The catnip reaction is inherited, and, though some cats are totally unaffected by it, even large cats like tigers can be sensitive to it.
For humans, taken as a hot infusion, catnip promotes sweating and is beneficial for colds, flu, fevers, and infectious diseases. It is soothing to the nervous system and calming to the stomach. It aids with flatulence, diarrhea, and colic. It is sometimes used as an enema to cleanse and heal the lower bowel (use in diluted form). Catnip helps to prevent a miscarriage and premature birth and decreases the discomfort of morning sickness. These are just a few of benefits of Catnip.
Catnip is beneficial for young children. It stimulates the body, settles the stomach, and soothes the nerves. The combination of catnip with fennel has long been used as a remedy for colic, gas, teething difficulties, and indigestion in children. It also helps clean out mucus in the body.
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 the plant is found in the Catnip’s leaf. 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 but must be stored properly. As is the case with most herbs, Catnip should be stored in a dark, dry, and cool place. Refrigeration or freezing prolongs its value. The petalactone in catnip is UV photosensitive and, therefore, it is important that it be stored out of the sun. Some recommend caution for use by pregnant women but others say it is perfectly safe, even beneficial for expectant mothers.
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