Catnip (Catnip / Catmint)
Catnip (Catnip / Catmint)
Nepeta cataria
A gentle, cooling nervine for restless sleep and digestive wind.
Catnip plant · Herb · Parts: Leaf, Flowering top
- Taste (rasa)
- Bitter, pungent, aromatic
- Energy (virya)
- Cooling
- Balances
- Vata, Pitta
What it is used for
Benefits
- Calms nervous tension and supports restful sleep
- Eases digestive colic, bloating and flatulence
- Traditionally used to bring down a fever and soothe a headache
How much
Dosage
1-2 tsp dried leaf per cup of tea, 1-3 cups daily, especially before bed.
How to take it
Preparation & usage
Catnip bedtime tea
Steep 1-2 tsp dried catnip in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes. Strain and add honey if desired.
30 minutes before bed
Digestive infusion
Mix catnip with equal parts fennel and steep for 10 minutes.
After meals
Read this first
Precautions
- Avoid in pregnancy and while breastfeeding
- May increase drowsiness with sedative medication
- Use sparingly for children under guidance
Where this comes from
Sources
Common questions
What is Catnip used for?
A gentle, cooling nervine for restless sleep and digestive wind. In traditional use the main applications are: Calms nervous tension and supports restful sleep; Eases digestive colic, bloating and flatulence; Traditionally used to bring down a fever and soothe a headache.
What is the typical dosage of Catnip?
1-2 tsp dried leaf per cup of tea, 1-3 cups daily, especially before bed. Amounts vary with age, constitution and health status, so confirm your own dose with a qualified practitioner.
How and when should Catnip be taken?
Catnip bedtime tea: Steep 1-2 tsp dried catnip in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes. Strain and add honey if desired. Timing — 30 minutes before bed
Are there any precautions with Catnip?
Avoid in pregnancy and while breastfeeding May increase drowsiness with sedative medication Use sparingly for children under guidance Speak to a doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or if you take prescription medication.
Does Catnip replace medical treatment?
No. This page documents traditional Ayurvedic use for education; it is not a diagnosis or treatment and does not replace prescribed medication or professional advice.
Where to buy
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