Catnip's therapeutic uses
Catnip, scientifically known as Nepeta cataria, is a natural herb traditionally recognized for its therapeutic uses in humans, particularly as a sleep aid and remedy for various digestive issues. It is commonly employed to alleviate insomnia and mild stomach discomfort, especially those related to stress. Additionally, catnip has been suggested for use in treating menstrual cramps, headaches, and providing support during colds and flu, with some anecdotal reports indicating potential benefits for anxiety and restlessness.
Historically, catnip has also been noted for its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, which may assist in preventing infections, particularly oral infections. While general safety studies are lacking, catnip tea is typically considered safe for most adults, though pregnant women and individuals with specific health conditions, such as severe liver or kidney disease, are advised to exercise caution. Overall, while catnip is well-known for its effects on cats, its potential therapeutic applications for humans remain an area of interest and exploration.
Catnip's therapeutic uses
- DEFINITION: Natural plant product used to treat specific health conditions.
- PRINCIPAL PROPOSED USES: None
- OTHER PROPOSED USES: Indigestion (especially when caused by stress), insomnia, anxiety and stress, cold and flu support, menstrual cramps, headache relief
Overview
Although catnip stimulates virtually all felines, it is traditionally used as a sleep aid in humans. It has also been used for digestive and menstrual problems, as a uterine stimulant in childbirth, and as a symptomatic treatment for colds. Publications from the late 1960s suggested that the plant, when smoked, produced a psychedelic high not unlike marijuana. Still, it was later discovered that the researchers had mixed up the two plants.
Therapeutic Dosages
Catnip tea is most commonly made by mixing 1 to 2 teaspoons (1 to 2 grams) of the dried herb, or half that amount of the liquid extract, per cup of water (240 milliliters) and can be consumed up to three times daily.
Therapeutic Uses
Catnip is primarily used by today’s herbalists as a treatment for insomnia, as well as for mild stomach upset, especially when caused by stress. One ingredient of catnip, trans-cis-nepetalactone, is the active ingredient as far as cats are concerned. Most (but not all) cats respond to this substance with a complex “catnip response” reaction that can go on for about an hour.
Nepetalactone is similar to a class of substances called valepotriates, found in the sedative herb valerian. This has attracted some attention, as valerian is also used for insomnia and stomach discomfort. However, as valepotriates are no longer considered to be the active ingredients in valerian, it is not clear that this relationship has any significance.
While reports that catnip aids in relieving anxiety, restlessness, and insomnia remained largely anecdotal in the twenty-first century, studies in the 2010s supported some health benefits to catnip. Catnip was discovered to have antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that may stop bacteria growth and prevent infections when a salve is made from dried catnip leaves. One study found catnip to be especially helpful in the treatment of oral infections. A previous study also determined catnip tea may have a slight benefit in relieving headaches. Other therapeutic uses for catnip have also been suggested. Catnip may treat not just mild stomach discomfort but also indigestion, gas, bloating, and cramps. Catnip has been used as a natural fever reducer and may help decrease the length and severity of colds and flu. Catnip may help relieve menstrual cramps and regulate menstrual cycles. Anacetoatal reports have suggested that catnip may offer headache relief.
Safety Issues
Although comprehensive safety studies have not been performed, catnip tea is generally regarded as safe. However, because of its traditional use as a uterine stimulant, pregnant women should probably avoid catnip. Safety for young children or individuals with severe liver or kidney disease has not been established.
Bibliography
Butler, Natalie. "Catnip Tea: Health Benefits and Uses." Healthline, 15 Nov. 2017, www.healthline.com/health/catnip-tea#potential-health-benefits. Accessed 12 Sept. 2024.
"Catnip." Drugs.com, www.drugs.com/npc/catnip.html. Accessed 12 Sept. 2024.
McGuffin, M., editor. American Herbal Products Association’s Botanical Safety Handbook. CRC Press; 1997.
Zelman, Kathleen M. "Catnip Tea: Health Benefits, Nutrients per Serving, Preparation Information, and More." WebMD, 23 Mar. 2023, www.webmd.com/diet/catnip-tea-health-benefits. Accessed 12 Sept. 2024.