There is a wide belief that Catnip Tea can be highly health beneficial. It can either be bought as fresh catnip which is said to be more potent or packaged. The applications of Catnip Tea range from fever reduction over anti-inflammatory or antiseptic. Some have even used it as a pain-reliever. Catnip Tea basically is a relaxant which is why it is often used before going to bed. While it is usually used as a tea it can also be supplied in leaves that can be chewed.
Most of us know catnip tea for its sedative properties. It soothes and relaxes the nervous system, induces relaxation and promotes restful sleep. It has a calming effect on tension, nervousness, anxiety and panic. Adding honey to the tea will make it more appealing to kids and babies when used to calm restless, hyperactive children and to treat colic.
Catnip is also a stimulant used to relieve constipation. In the uterus it induces and regulates menstruation while relieving cramps, so is best avoided by pregnant women. Catnip also stimulates perspiration and likewise acts as a diuretic.
Many people are surprised about the amount of applications that catnip tea can be used. Some might know that it can be used to reduce fever but what about treating the flue, colds because of its ability to increase perspiration without raising temperature. It can also control diarrhea and relieve gas, upset stomach and stomach aches.
With its antibacterial, antiseptic and soothing properties, catnip tea may be gargled to treat sore throat and cough. Inhaled, its anti-inflammatory and decongestant action eases the stuffiness of colds, croup and other respiratory infections, while its calming effect relaxes the spasms of asthma.
Used as a mouthwash, the tea is said to relieve toothache. Its antiseptic and antioxidant properties reduce inflammation and help to heal infected gum tissue . It is also thought to ease the teething process for babies. Cotton balls, saturated with tea, can be directly applied to gum.
Catnip leaves are rich in tannin and vitamins C and E, antioxidants which help the body to heal and repair itself. The tea is used topically on the skin to reduce inflammation and promote healing of burns and scalds, on cuts and abrasions to stop bleeding and disinfect the wound, and to relieve the sting and itching of insect bites. It is applied as a topical liniment for pain, bruises, sprain, rheumatism, and arthritis.
Catnip tea may be used in the bath to treat skin eruptions or as a soothing rinse for irritated scalp. It may also eliminate toxins through the skin by increasing perspiration. Ingestion or application to the skin repels insects, and the scent may also repels rats. Cooled catnip tea can be used as an eyewash to clear away allergic symptoms and to soothe inflamed, swollen, watery and bloodshot eyes.