Catnip is a medicinal plant, also known as Catnip, native to Europe and the Mediterranean, which is currently grown in various parts of the world to treat digestive problems, fever, or to calm the nervous system.
The scientific name of Catnip is Nepeta cataria, which is a plant that produces tubular flowers, with white and purple spots, which appear from summer until mid-autumn. The part of the plant that has the most therapeutic effects is the aerial parts, which can be taken in tea or used in ointment or tincture.
What is it for
The herb-of-cat has in its constitution components such as citronellol, geraniol, nepetalactone and glycosides that have innumerable properties, and can therefore be used in the following cases:
- Cough; Flu; Digestive problems; Colic; Hemorrhoids; Stress; Gas bloating; Fever; Diarrhea; Insomnia; Arthritis and rheumatism; Headache.
In addition, this plant can also be used to disinfect wounds.
How to use
Catnip can be used in several ways, and can be prepared at home or obtained already prepared in a pharmacy or herbalist:
1. Tea
Catnip Tea can be used to treat colds, stomach problems and poor digestion, alleviate cramps or reduce stress.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon of aerial parts of dry Catnip, 1 cup of boiling water.
Method of preparation
Put the herbs in a cup of tea and pour the boiling water over the top. Let stand for 10 minutes, capping to prevent volatile oils from escaping and then strain and let cool. Have a cup of tea, 3 times a day.
2. Dye
Tinctures are stronger alcoholic solutions than teas and have greater durability, allowing herbs to be stored throughout the year.
Ingredients
- 200 g of aerial parts of dry Catnip, 1 liter of vodka with an alcohol content of 37.5%.
Method of preparation
Prick the Catnip and place in a sterilized dark glass with a lid, pour the vodka, immerse the herbs completely and store in a dark and airy place, shaking every two weeks. After this time, strain the mixture and filter with a paper filter and finally put it in the dark glass again.
Take 5 ml, 3 times a day, mixed with a little tea or water to treat digestive problems and headache or use pure to massage painful areas due to problems such as arthritis or rheumatism.
3. Ointment
Catnip can also be used in the form of an ointment and can be obtained from a pharmacy or herbalist. This ointment is very useful to treat hemorrhoids, and should be applied 2 to 3 times a day.
Contraindications
Catnip should not be used during pregnancy.
Side effects
Catnip is generally a safe plant, however, if taken in excess it can cause headache, vomiting and discomfort. In addition, it can also increase bleeding during the menstrual period.
