Catnip (Catnep, Catmint)

Basic Information

Biological name (genus and species):
Nepeta cataria
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Leaves
Chemicals this herb contains:
Acetic acid
Buteric acid
Citral
Dipentene
Lifronella
Limonene
Nepetalic acid
Tannins (See Glossary)
Terpene
Valeric acid
Volatile oils (See Glossary)

KNOWN EFFECTS

Stimulates central nervous system. Relieves spasm in skeletal or smooth muscle. Interferes with absorption of iron and other minerals when taken internally.

Miscellaneous information:
Catnip is not a psychedelic or euphoria-producing drug, despite several reports to the contrary.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

Steeped leaves produce increased sweating for reducing fevers. Leaves used as snuff to treat colic (See Glossary). Treats insomnia.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Don't take if you:
Are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or plan pregnancy in the near future.

Consult your doctor if you:
Take this herb for any medical problem that doesn't improve in 2 weeks. There may be safer, more-effective treatments. Take any medicinal drugs or herbs including aspirin, laxatives, cold and cough remedies, antacids, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, supplements, other prescription or non-prescription drugs.

Pregnancy:
Problems in pregnant women taking small or usual amounts have not been proved. But the chance of problems does exist. Don't use unless prescribed by your doctor.

Breast-feeding:
Problems in breast-fed infants of lactating mothers taking small or usual amounts have not been proved. But the chance of problems does exist. Don't use unless prescribed by your doctor.

Infants and children:
Treating infants and children under 2 with any herbal preparation is hazardous.

Others:
None expected if you are beyond childhood and under 45, basically healthy and take for only a short time.

Storage:
Keep cool and dry, but don't freeze. Store safely away from children.

Safe dosage:
At present no "safe" dosage has been established.

TOXICITY

Generally regarded as safe when taken in appropriate
quantities for short periods of time.

ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS

None expected