Catnip (Nepeta cataria), a member of the mint family, has calming properties and has been used for centuries in traditional Western folk medicine. Known for its relaxing effects on both humans and cats, catnip is often consumed as tea or tincture. While it excites felines, it has a soothing effect on people, especially children, and has been used for occasional restlessness and digestive issues.
 
This gray-green perennial, native to the Mediterranean, grows 2-3 feet tall with fuzzy, heart-shaped leaves. Catnip was first mentioned in an 11th-century herbal and has been used for nervousness, sleep aid, and digestion. Its flowering tops are used for tea or oil, while the root is less commonly used due to overstimulation.
 
Native American tribes, including the Hoh, Delaware, and Iroquois, used catnip for children's digestive complaints and sleeplessness, as did European settlers. In the southwestern U.S., it was used as a digestive tonic, often combined with fennel. It’s also considered useful for calming emotional-based digestive issues.
 
Catnip’s effects on cats are well-known: they react to the nepetalactone scent by rolling, head shaking, and even exhibiting sexual behavior. This response lasts 15 minutes to an hour, and is not limited to domesticated cats but also seen in larger felines like tigers and leopards.
 
Precautions
Not for use in pregnancy except under the supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.
 
This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For educational purposes only.