A cat favorite, Catnip (Nepeta cataria) takes center stage this month as we shine a light on the versatility and playfulness of this plant. It creates a craze in cats, a calmness in people and a curiosity that makes me grateful I’m not a cat.
Catnip’s botanical description and personality
Catnip belongs to the Lamiaceae family, also known as the mint family. Mint family plants are known for their square stems and alternate leaves and are usually considered very aromatic and attractive. When walking or exploring the plant life in my neighborhood, I can always tell when Catnip is nearby because the scent follows the wind and leads me straight to it. It grows well and wild here in Colorado. Be careful, though, because mountain lions are not exempt from this plant’s appeal! I often find that if there is a “Beware of Mountain Lions” sign on a hiking trail, then Catnip is definitely right around the corner. Catnip is known as a “mild remedy,” meaning it is safe and beneficial for the young and wise. WishGarden uses catnip in Digestive Rescue for Adults and Digestive Rescue for Kids because this herb is effective yet gentle. The softness is reflected in the soft leaves and small purple flowering buds, and the strength is reflected in the fierce scent and appeal.
Catnip’s relationship with the human body
Catnip definitely affects people differently than cats. Many cats become energetic when playing with the herb, but humans typically experience a more calming effect. Catnip is often consumed in tincture form or by tea infusion. The cooling properties soothe digestive problems and help disperse heat from the body. It has a mild and gentle sedative effect that promotes a calm and relaxed nervous system. It can also be used for discomfort associated with colds, by promoting sweating and soothing a tense head and neck. Catnip has also historically been used in compresses to soothe skin irritations. You can chew the catnip until it is broken down and moist and then apply it directly to the skin for a soothing and cooling sensation. It is a great addition to an ointment or ointment intended to soothe itching or relax overworked muscles.
A sweeter idea
I am a big fan of making syrups and glycerites with herbs that have a pleasant smell and taste. After indulging in the sweet benefits of Catnip, I was inspired to use it in a glycerite recipe that can be used to sweeten tea, coffee, or cocktails and mocktails. One of the many benefits of extracting herbal compounds into 100% vegetable glycerin is that no alcohol is required. Vegetable glycerin also brings out the smooth flavor of the herbs, provides additional health benefits and is delicious!
I used a combination of fresh herbs from the office (desire) garden and dried herbs, food grade vegetable glycerin, and a mason jar to make this Catnip Glycerite:
- 2 parts fresh catnip (leaves, stems and flowers)
- 1 part Anise (leaves, flowers)
- 1 part dried Chamomile (flowers)
- 1 part fresh lavender (leaves and flowers)
- Combine herbs and add them to the glass jar
- Pour glycerin over the herbs, making sure all the herbs are covered
- Close the lid tightly and place it in a sunny spot
- Shake herbs daily (shake or rotate jar)
- Leave for 2-3 weeks
- Strain, bottle and enjoy!
References
- The Energetic of Western Herbs Vol. 1 by Peter Holmes, page 155
- Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine by Andrew Chevallier, FNIMH, page 23
Rebecca Younger strives to spark interest in herbs within her community through education and by integrating herbs into everyday life in exciting and innovative ways. She studied herbal medicine at Herbalism Roots in Denver. She is a Customer Journey Representative at WishGarden Herbs.
For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, or to sell any product
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