Catnip Effects on Humans

Doctors have always believed medicinal herbs as an effective treatment for physical and mental ailments. One such herbal plant that has been used for years for its high medicinal value is catnip. Leaves as well as flowers of catnip are used to prepare herbal extracts and teas. These herbal products provide plenty of health benefits. Herbalists also mention that catnip effects on humans can create a positive impact on individual health.

This herbal plant is easy to grow and one can either plant it indoors or outdoors as per the convenience. One can easily get catnip seeds in the market to grow this plant. Many people prefer to buy its herbal supplements (capsules) or directly purchase fresh catnip leaves from a nursery to make herbal tea.

It is also available as a tincture or a liquid extract. Its usage in England as a food additive dates back to 13th century. Catnip was used as a condiment to enhance flavor of meat. After contacting a nutritionist, one can introduce catnip leaves to vegetable salads.

Whether taken orally or applied topically, catnip herb provides a wide range of benefits. People who have used this herb emphasize its ability to combat various illnesses. Some of these effects are listed below:

Having a cup of catnip tea is one of the best ways to control anxiety. Its calming effect on the mind and body is beneficial to overcome anxiety. This herb contains a substance known as nepetalactone, which acts as a great relaxant. Whether it is treating patients for anxiety, stress or depression, taking catnip in the form of capsules (herbal supplements) or tea is definitely a good option.

Catnip effects on humans are not restricted to curing mental disorders but even sleeping disorders like insomnia can be effectively treated with this medicinal herb. Insomnia patients seem to respond quite well to this herb. This is one of the herbs recommended for healing insomnia. A cup of catnip tea can certainly promote a good night's sleep. Catnip tea provides a relaxing effect, which helps to induce sleep.

Catnip acts as a natural sedative and arouses a feeling of drowsiness when taken in any form. So, if you are longing to get quality sleep, then drink catnip tea and within no time you will fall asleep. The sedative effect of catnip relieves stress and calms the mind, thereby helping you to get sound sleep.

People suffering from cold and flu have a hard time breathing properly. Difficulty breathing during respiratory infections is common and an easy way to overcome it would be to have herbal tea made from catnip plant. It acts as a natural decongestant and can play a very important role to alleviate chest congestion. Catnip is also helpful to reduce discomfort associated with respiratory disorders like bronchitis and asthma.

One can rely on catnip leaves when it comes to alleviating pain associated with toothaches. Put mashed fresh leaves on the gum to get relief from toothache. Chewing leaves of this plant is yet another way to subside toothache. Sprinkle catnip powder generously on the cotton ball and then hold it in the mouth, just below the affected tooth. This method also provides relief from sore tooth.

Stomach discomfort is common in people suffering from bloating, flatulence, and diarrhea. To ease stomach pain associated with gastrointestinal disorders, using herbal remedies in the form of catnip supplements is definitely a good option. The supplements may help to release the gas trapped in the intestinal tract. Taking catnip tea after meals can also help to improve digestion.

A poultice prepared using catnip leaves can be directly applied on the injured part of the body to stop bleeding. In other words, topical application of catnip herb is helpful to heal injuries and wounds.

Those looking for herbal teas for IBS can rely on catnip tea. To get relief from abdominal pain and infrequent bowel movement associated with IBS, one should drink catnip tea.

In a teacup, add a cup of hot water to 3 teaspoons of fresh catnip or 1-2 teaspoon of dried catnip flowers and leaves. Leave it for 10-15 minutes and then put little honey or lemon juice to enhance the flavor. Avoid using boiling water as it can destroy the medicinal properties of the herb.

Also, do not take the tea several times in a day, as the purported benefits are not backed by scientific evidence. Just 1 or 2 cups of catnip tea is enough to reap its supposed benefits. Tea made from home grown organic catnip is advisable to derive its maximum benefits.

Before taking the herb in supplemental form, follow the instructions on the product label or contact your health care provider to learn about its correct dosage.

Although, the health benefits of this herbal plant are manifold, pregnant women should not take catnip tea in any form. This is because it induces contractions of the uterus, which may cause miscarriage. Also, menstrual discharge is one of the possible serious side effects linked to usage of catnip. So, during pregnancy and women who are having their periods should also stay away from catnip.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this Story is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.