Other Common Names: Catmint, catnep, catswort, fieldbalm.

Habitat: Catnip is native to the milder climates of Europe and has been naturalized to North America and Asia as well. This herb does well in garden soil and does not have the moisture requirements of other plants.

Plant Description: This member of the mint family has erect, square, branched stems, growing to a height of 2 to 3 feet. The catnip plant sports heart-shaped, toothed leaves in an opposite pattern, which are covered with fine downy hairs, especially on the under sides, giving the plant a grayish appearance. The small, tubular, two-lipped flowers grow in whorls that become denser as they approach the summit. The flowers are white to lavender with reddish-purple spots. This herb blooms from June to September and has a strong minty fragrance.

Plant Parts Used: The entire above the ground plant can be gathered just after full bloom and dried. The flowering tops are most commonly used in medicinal applications. (Folklore states that chewing the root may increase aggressiveness and irritability.)

Therapeutic Benefits and Uses of Catnip and Claims

* This herb is often used for seasoning and meat tenderizing

* Catnip has a diaphoretic effect (increasing perspiration without raising body temperature) and antipyretic (anti-fever) effects. This leads to its use to treat colds and influenza.

* A mild tea made of catnip may be effective in treating colic, restlessness, and nervousness in children.

* The tonic and antispasmodic qualities of this herb help to relieve many gastrointestinal disorders and cramping.

* A poultice of the leaves and flowers of catmint can be applied to reduce swelling from rheumatism, soft-tissue injuries and other inflammatory conditions.

* A mixture of catnip tea and saffron has shown promise in treating scarlet-fever and small-pox.

* Catnip is also used as a muscle relaxant and mild sedative, which is why it is often used to relieve the pain of headaches (especially tension headaches.) This also explains its use to combat insomnia and other sleep disorders.

* This plant has also been used to bring about the menses in delayed menstruation and increase tone in the uterus.

* The essential oil, nepetalactone, found in catnip, has been shown to be at least as effective as DEET as an insect repellant. This also works as a flea treatment in animals or on carpets.

Preparation and Usage

Catnip can be used as an herb or seasoning on salads. It can also be steeped as a tea. The oils may be extracted and taken in capsule form or used externally. The oils or a potpourri concoction may be used for aroma therapy. The tea may be prepared by adding 1 to 2 teaspoons to 1 cup of hot (not boiling) water. Steep for 10 minutes then strain. It is common to take the capsules or tea three times daily.

Potential Side Effects of Catnip

Catnip has not been associated with any common side effects. The possibility of this herb causing uterine contractions means pregnant women should avoid using it. This herb has also shown no contraindications with other medicines. It is always a good idea to discuss any new herbal treatments with your physician or pharmacist if you are taking prescription medications.