What does Nepeta cataria do to humans?
Catnip tea and tincture too offers many healing gifts to us humans as well — perhaps the most surprising of all is that catnip calms and relaxes humans. Yes, that’s right. The leaves and flowering tops of this plant that hypes up cats has a calming effect on our human nervous systems. Various forms of catnip exist, including sprays, dried leaves, and the entire plant. Although each varies in its concentration of nepetalactone, there is minimal difference in how profoundly these different forms affect cats. Since catnip is not a drug, its effects don’t depend on the amount given or the concentration.Catnip, scientifically known as Nepeta cataria, is a natural herb traditionally recognized for its therapeutic uses in humans, particularly as a sleep aid and remedy for various digestive issues. It is commonly employed to alleviate insomnia and mild stomach discomfort, especially those related to stress.Human brains are physiologically different from cat brains and people do not react to catnip by getting high. Native Americans, however, once used catnip for the uncontrollable cries of infant colic. It also serves as a mild sedative in some herbal teas.Herbalists and parents often brew this child-friendly herb into a soothing tisane, but it can also be taken internally as a tincture. For topical use, catnip can be infused in oils, or used as an essential oil or hydrosol to bring an herbaceous, relaxing scent to body care products.Catnip contains volatile oils, which lend it its aromatic scent. These volatile oils include citronella, pulegone, thymol, and more. Catnip also contains tannins, which contribute to its astringency, and iridoids, which have an anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effect.
What is Nepeta cataria used for?
Nepeta cataria is cultivated as an ornamental plant for use in gardens. It is also grown for its attractant qualities to house cats and butterflies. The plant is drought-tolerant and deer-resistant. It can be a repellent for certain insects, including aphids and squash bugs. Monoclonal antibody medication (i. Solensia), which is specifically designed to treat arthritis pain in cats. Joint supplements to repair damaged cartilage and replenish joint fluid. Laser therapy treatments to decrease inflammation and pain. Rehabilitation exercises to help your cat regain muscle mass and mobility.Anti-inflammation: Catnip has anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in soothing your cat’s joint pain.Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a caffeine-free herb, making it a suitable choice for those looking to avoid caffeine in their beverages.Catnip sits comfortably within what is considered permissible (halal) for cats when it is natural, non toxic, and offered in moderation.
Does Nepeta have any medicinal uses?
History. Nepeta cataria is a herb that has been recognised for its medicinal properties for many centuries. Over time it has been used in remedies to cure internal cancer, smallpox and scarlet fever (2). Its nepetalactone content is a balm for the stressed and sleep-deprived, offering a mild sedative effect. In spiritual practices, Catmint is used to soothe the soul, reflecting its multifaceted role as a healer.The aromatic qualities of the Nepeta family come from nepetalactone, which is similar chemically to feline pheromones, triggering a playful, wild response from cats, but has a calming, nervine effect on people! Help promote sleep and calm with a cup of Catmint tea while also acting as a digestive aid.
What is Nepeta cataria?
Catnip is a vigorous and weedy herbaceous perennial native to Eurasia in the mint family (Lamiaceae) that is hardy in zones 3-9. Widely naturalized throughout temperate regions of the world, Nepeta cataria is one of several species that are referred to collectively as catmints. Catnip is entirely legal throughout the United States. The herb is widely available in pet stores, online marketplaces, and even garden centers, and there are no federal restrictions on its production or sale.The wild catnip plant is leafy green, and has white flowers with distinctive purple spots. The catnip you’ll buy in a pet supply store is dried and processed; it looks much like dried oregano or basil flakes that you might have in your spice cupboard.
What happens if you smoke Nepeta cataria?
The effects of smoking catnip are generally limited to a mild sense of calm or may offer mild relaxation, but do not result in euphoria or intoxication. Studies show no meaningful psychoactive effects. While generally safe, its benefits for humans are limited to mild calming effects or traditional herbal uses. Risks and side effects In small quantities, catnip tea is safe for adults. However, larger amounts may cause headaches, vomiting, and digestive discomfort. Catnip is a diuretic, which means it can cause frequent urination. Drinking too much catnip tea could lead to dehydration.There has been one report of a child experiencing stomach pain, irritability, and sluggishness after taking catnip leaves and tea. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: It is LIKELY UNSAFE to use take catnip during pregnancy. There is some evidence that catnip can stimulate the uterus. This might cause a miscarriage.Children: Catnip is possibly unsafe when taken by mouth in children. Stomach pain, irritability, and sluggishness has been reported in one child taking catnip leaves and tea. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and heavy menstrual periods: Catnip might make PID worse and cause excessive menstruation. Avoid use.Ingesting too much catnip can cause an upset stomach, including vomiting and diarrhea. Occasionally, in rare cases, cats may develop more severe symptoms such as lethargy, loss of coordination, and even seizures.