Catnip
Catnip
Nepeta cataria
AKA: Catmint, Catnep, Catswort, Field balm
Portrait: Perennial. Native to many parts of Europe, naturalized in North America. Member of the mint family that grows in wild, low mountainous areas and dry, hard-packed soil. Flowers are white with purple spots and appear from June to September.
Medicinal Element: All parts above-ground
Herbal Properties: Anodyne, antispasmodic, aromatic, carminative, diaphoretic
Summary: In humans, catnip is a mild sedative typically used in an infusion for upset stomach, intestinal gas, and diarrhea. It promotes perspiration by warming the body and is said to be a mild analgesic for tension headaches. Catnip is sometimes added to herbal cold preparations to reduce fever and help clear chest congestion associated with acute bronchitis. A poultice made of the leaves and flowers is reputed to aid in the healing of bruises and scalp irritations.
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