Catnip

Catnip

Latin Name: Nepeta cataria

Herb Class/Action: Catnip is classified as a nervine, relaxant, carminative, and mild diaphoretic.

Parts of Plant Used: The leaves and flowering tops of the catnip plant are used for medicinal and culinary purposes.

Flavors: Catnip has a mildly aromatic flavor with hints of mint and lemon.

Energetics: Catnip is energetically cooling and drying.

Medicinal Properties:

    • Relaxation: Catnip is well-known for its calming effects on the nervous system. It can help alleviate anxiety, stress, and nervous tension, promoting relaxation and restful sleep.
    • Digestive Support: Catnip has carminative properties, meaning it can help relieve gas, bloating, and indigestion. It can also stimulate appetite and improve digestion.
    • Fever Reduction: As a mild diaphoretic, catnip can induce sweating, which may help reduce fevers and aid in the body's natural detoxification process.

In the Garden: Catnip is a perennial herb that is easy to grow in a variety of soil types. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Catnip produces small, white or purple flowers that attract bees and butterflies to the garden. It can spread rapidly and may become invasive in some regions.

Culinary Uses: Catnip leaves can be used fresh or dried to make herbal teas or infused into culinary dishes. They add a subtle minty flavor to salads, soups, sauces, and herbal vinegars. Catnip can also be used to flavor meats and fish.

Precautions: Catnip is generally safe for most individuals when consumed in moderate amounts. However, excessive use may cause drowsiness or mild digestive upset in some

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