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Catnip - Uses and Benefits
Alternative Names:
Catmint, Catswort, Field Balm .
Herb Description
Catnip is a grey-green,hardy perennial herb of the mint family.It is deep-rooted to Europe , Asia and Africa , with the number of species diversity in the Mediterranean region east to mainland China .This perennial plant may reach up to three feet height and be highly branched.The gray-green to green leaves are heart shaped having a margin with rounded scallops edges and are often crowded toward the top of the plant.It has pubescent leaves and white flowers with purple-spotted, two lipped, and produce four tiny, dark nut lets per flower .Catnip flowers in July to September.The flowers mature on short supporting stalk in dense volute .
Catnip is so called because of the curious behavior of cats when they get a sniff of this feline favorite. It have as a component of potassium , iron , selenium,manganese, chromium & moderate quantity of other minerals & vitamins. It is beneficial as a medicinal tea to abate coughing, cold symptoms, upset stomach and to assist sleep.It gives excellent nutritional advantage.It is used in various botanical preparations. The plant is described as being a favorable calmative for hyperactive children & used as a curative in the treatment of tension and anxiety.As an herbal apothecary,Its distilled oil is supposed to be a very efficacious appetite stimulant, and has been used in the treatment of anorexia.
Uses and Benefits
Catnip is used in herbal remedies for colds, flu, fevers, upset stomach, and insomnia.It is also used to ebb cramps, and it is believed to have sedative actions that can treat nervous symptoms and migraine headache. It is taken also for digestion. It nourishes the stomach and nerves .Catnip is also said to help mitigate symptoms of nausea and diarrhea.
Catnip contains high amount of vitamins A, C and B-complex and have magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, sodium and some parts of sulphur.It aromatic property assist the nervous system by way of its influence upon the digestive system.It is also best known to use as a treatment for flatulence and relax the intestinal tract. In addition, it enhance circulation and in eliminating mucus from the body.
Cataplasm made from catnip have generally been used for toothaches. Catnip is an astringent, externally it can be applied on cuts and scrapes to halt bleeding and promote healing .Traditionally ,the leaves of catnip have been chewed as a remedy for diminishing toothaches. The leaves and shoots have also been used in sauces, soups, and stews.
Catnip tea, made willingly from the fresh cut herb, makes an efficacious treatment for insomnia and hyperactivity .Catnip leaves of can also be used to make a pillow that can be slipped into a pillowcase to promote sleep.
Side Effects
Catnip has diuretic actions, and may heighten the frequency and amount of urination. It can also lead to an upset stomach in some individuals. Catnip may act to promote uterine contractions, it is not recommended to use during pregnancy.
Excess amounts of catnip could cause fatigue, headaches, nausea, or vomiting .Catnip taken by mouth can result in drowsiness. In some individuals tiredness & decreased mental alertness is reported.
Individuals using the herb should use caution when driving or operating machinery,Because of the sedative property of catnip.
Dosage
- Tea:
Take 1-2 teaspoons of the herb by adding 250 ml (1 cup) of boiling water. Steep for 10 to 15 minutes.Use three times in a day.
- Tincture:
Made by diluting the herb in alcohol. A crushed catnip can be applied to a compress to cure cuts and scrapes. Use three times in a day.
Drug Interactions
Catnip have some sedate actions & it promotes sleepiness,can heighten the sedation combined with certain prescription drugs, non-prescription drugs, other dietary supplements, and alcohol.
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