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Herbs & Supplements
Nepeta cataria
Scientific Name: Catnip
Other Names: Catmint, Catnep, Catrup, Catswort, Field Balm, Field Wort
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Uses
Note: Catnip sold for pets is often contaminated with other plant products. It should not be used for human consumption.
Orally, catnip is most often used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and nervousness. It contains a chemical known as nepetalactone that produces a sedating effect in humans. Due to this ability to promote relaxation, catnip may also be used to help lessen migraine headaches. Because chemicals in it may have antispasmodic (muscle-relaxing) effects, catnip has also been taken to relieve stomach complaints such as colic, cramps, gas, and indigestion. Although isolated studies in animals and numerous case reports from humans seem to confirm these effects, no clinical studies of humans have been conducted to prove or disprove any medicinal properties of catnip.
On the skin, catnip may reduce swelling associated with arthritis, hemorrhoids, and soft tissue injuries, such as bruises, when it is used as a topical poultice. A poultice is usually a soft cloth that has been soaked in a medication, possibly heated, and applied to an aching or injured area of skin surface. Recent laboratory studies have shown that catnip may contain antibacterial and antiviral substances, but the effects of these components need further study to be proved.
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Note: The above information is not intended to replace the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not meant to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you.
In general, herbal products are not subject to review or approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not required to be standardized, meaning that the amounts of active ingredients or contaminants they contain may vary between brands or between different batches of the same brand. Not all of the risks, side effects, or interactions associated with the use of herbal products are known because few reliable studies of their use in humans have been done.
This information is provided for your education only. Please share this information with your healthcare provider and be sure that you talk to your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medicines you take before you begin to use any herbal product.
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