Nepeta cataria, commonly known as catnip, is a gray-green perennial in the Lamiaceae (mint) family, native to the Mediterranean regions of Europe, Asia, and Africa. It has been introduced to North America and other parts of the world, where it is widely naturalized and cultivated in gardens and for commercial use. The plant features square stems, fuzzy heart-shaped leaves with toothed edges, and small, fragrant pink to white flowers on terminal spikes, growing 2-3 feet tall. The leaves and flowering tops are primarily used, either dried for teas, tinctured, or added fresh to herbal blends.
Catnip is valued for its gentle, calming properties and has been used in traditional European and Native American practices to promote relaxation, support healthy digestion, and soothe occasional stomach discomfort, particularly in children. It is often prepared as a tea to aid restful sleep or as a diaphoretic to induce perspiration. The leaves can also be used in culinary applications, adding a minty, pennyroyal-like flavor to sauces and stews. Catnip is available as dried leaves and flowering tops, ideal for teas or herbal blends, retaining its quality when stored properly.
Precautions
No known precautions. 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.
