Known for its soothing and calming properties, catnip has been used for centuries in traditional Western folk medicine to promote relaxation and ease occasional discomfort. Nepeta cataria, a member of the mint family, features square stems, heart-shaped leaves, and small fragrant pink to white flowers. Catnip’s leaves are often steeped into a relaxing tea, tinctured, or blended with other herbs to create calming herbal blends.
While cats go wild for this herb, it has a gentler, calming effect on humans. Catnip has long been used in European folk medicine as a calming agent for both body and mind, making it particularly beneficial for children and infants. It is often used to ease nervousness, promote restful sleep, and support healthy digestion.
Native to the dry, temperate Mediterranean regions of Europe, Asia, and Africa, catnip was introduced to North America by European settlers and has since become widely cultivated for commercial use. Used in traditional medicine for generations, catnip has been referenced in herbal texts dating back to the 11th century. Its ability to promote relaxation and relieve occasional digestive issues made it a staple in both American and European folk medicine.
Catnip was prized as a gentle relaxant and diaphoretic, helping with issues like occasional restlessness and insomnia. The leaves and flowering tops are typically used in teas, and the oil can also be used for topical applications. Some herbalists recommend catnip to balance the physical manifestations of indigestion and emotional tension, as it is thought to have mildly warming and calming properties.
In addition to its calming properties, catnip has long been used as a remedy for occasional stomach discomfort. Indigenous cultures, including the Hoh, Delaware, and Iroquois tribes, used it to soothe children’s upset stomachs. Catnip is also a popular addition to digestive tonics, often combined with fennel or used to balance harsher herbs like senna.
Known for its peculiar effect on cats, catnip contains an aromatic compound called nepetalactone, which induces a strong behavioral response in felines, including chewing, head shaking, rolling, and even sexual excitement. This reaction is not limited to housecats; big cats like lions, tigers, and leopards also exhibit similar behavior when exposed to catnip. The response typically lasts anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour.
There are no known precautions when using organic catnip. However, we always recommend consulting with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking any medications.
Our organic catnip is carefully cultivated and harvested to ensure the highest quality. Whether you’re seeking a calming tea or adding it to your favorite herbal blends, catnip offers a timeless remedy with gentle, soothing benefits.
$15.00
| Weight | 2 oz |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 3.375 × 2.5 × 7.75 in |
