Catnip
Latin: Nepeta Cataria
Parts used: Aerial parts
Flavors: Bitter, pungent
Energetics: Cooling, balancing
Actions: Relaxing nervine, carminative, mild diaphoretic, antispasmodic, digestive tonic
Affinities: Nervous system, digestive system, skin
Catnip is an herb in the mint family that has been valued in western herbalism for its affinity for the nervous system and the digestive system. As a relaxing nervine, it helps with calming nervous tension, mild anxiety, irritability, and restlessness. It is also beneficial before bed due to its mild sedative properties, quieting an overactive mind and preparing the body for rest. As an antispasmodic, it can be beneficial for easing smooth muscle cramps like menstrual cramps, GI spasms, and tension headaches.
As an aromatic bitter, Catnip stimulates digestive secretions and tones the GI tract, while soothing nervous stomachs, colic, gas, and bloating. It has also been known to break fevers by encouraging perspiration when prepared as a hot infusion.
