Catnip (Nepeta cataria) - It’s a whole mood
AKA: Kitty Crack… but hear me out.
Okay, let’s just get this out of the way—yes, catnip has a reputation. If you’ve ever watched your cat roll around in pure, unfiltered bliss after a sniff, you know what I mean. In fact, two of my daughter’s in-house herbal "assistants," Kitten and Nyxlynn, take their catnip taste-testing very seriously. Kitten usually turns into a noodle of purring joy, while Nyxlynn goes full goblin-mode for about 15 minutes and then passes out in a sunbeam. Honestly, it’s a whole mood. But here’s the thing: catnip isn’t just for cats. This humble little herb has some serious magic for us humans too.
Fact- I didn’t give catnip much thought at first beyond the cat aisle. But once I started learning more, I was like—wait a minute, this stuff is kind of amazing. It’s part of the mint family (which makes sense once you smell it), and it’s been used for centuries as a gentle but effective nervine and digestive aid.
Got a fussy kiddo? Catnip tea has been a go-to for colic, teething, and restlessness.
Got a nervous system on edge (hi, it’s me)? Catnip helps calm the storm without knocking you out.
Tummy troubles, feverish kiddos, or even sunburn? Catnip’s got you.
It’s one of those herbs that I honestly think deserves way more credit. It’s cooling, soothing, and just… reliable. Like your favorite hoodie or a warm mug on a rough day.
Some traditional uses include:
Easing fevers and soothing colds
Calming nervous energy and muscle tension
Helping little ones (and grown-ups) sleep better
Supporting digestion and easing gas
Assisting with teething woes
Fun little bonus?
Catnip also has antimicrobial properties and even shows promise as a natural insect repellent. So yes—this unassuming herb might just replace your chemical bug spray this summer.
⚠️ Safety Note:
While catnip is generally super gentle, it’s traditionally been used to promote menstruation, so it’s best to skip it during pregnancy unless working with an herbalist or healthcare provider.
So, next time you see your cat losing their mind over a pile of dried leaves, just remember: they’re onto something. Catnip is the real deal—for them and for us.
More than just kitty crack.
More than just a funny name.
Catnip should be one of your herbal besties!
Powered by plants, pets, and persistence- See you back here next week!
Nikki