Catnip herb may be used as a natural mosquito repellent.
A medicinal herb that is good for children
Catnip (Nepeta Cataria) tea is a good remedy for children with colic, headaches, as well as symptoms of cold.
If it is strewn around the house it can keep away mice and rats. The common names are catmint, catnup, cat's-wort,field balm and it is a plant in the Lamiaceae family. It is also a perennial herb and it is native to North America.
It is seen as one of the best herbs for children and it is one of the oldest home remedies that is used for small children and infants. The tea may be used as an enema for children with convulsions and it is very useful in pain of any kind, spasm, gas, hyper-acidity in the stomach, and for the prevention of griping in the bowels of children.
Individuals who smoke catnip are benefited with a glad heart
It is a strong and powerful smelling member of the mint family and people who smoked the leaves of this herb were said to become happy although the smoking was mainly as an herbal remedy for respiratory problems.
It is one of the traditional cold and flu remedies and it can be used fresh, dried as well as frozen. The leaves may also be chewed to relieve toothache and sore gums. This herb is also used for anxiety disorder.
Catnip will expell worms from children
When it is mixed with sweet balm, marshmallow and sweet weed, it will make an excellent herbal baby remedy because of its soothing properties. Steeped one tablespoon in a pint of water and used as an enema to soothe and quiet babies. It is also effective in convulsions, fevers, and for expelling worms in children.
It is seen an aromatic herb and it has a considerable folkloric reputation in traditional use. It is believed to have sedative which can cause drowsiness, so do not drink it if you plan to drive.
This medicinal plant may be used as a tea, juice, tincture, infusion or poultice. It may also be seen as a culinary herb because it cab be used in cooking.
It produces narcotic effects on cats. Cats and catnip go well together. They just love this plant and gardeners who cultivate this herb will have to be on the alert to protect their gardens from these cats because they love to roll all over it and at times will take a nap in it. It is really like a love affair between these two. Therefore, it is advisable to plant it, not only for yourself but for your cats as well.
Preparation and Dosage
The infusion of one ounces to a pint of boiling water may be taken by adults in doses of 2 tablespoonfuls. Children may be given in 2 or 3 teaspoonfuls frequently to alleviate pain and flatulence.
Growing catnip
Wherever you are planting catnip, let it be in a sunny area with a little shade. It is best to grow it in well drained soil and it is also best to plant the seeds in the spring time.
It is a versatile herb in the sense that the seedlings can be sown at least 20 inches apart as well in clumps. It does not really matter, whatever is your choice it is just as good.
It is good to sow the seeds far away from other plants because it loves to overcrowd the other plants. This herb can really strive without fertilizer. It can grow two to three feet tall, so when it is a few inches, it is best to pinch back the shoots so as to encourage a thick and bushy growth.