Catnip, Nepeta cataria, is a mild aromatic herb that is soothing and settling to the stomach and nerves. Catnip is helpful for colds, chills, congestion, sore throats, and indigestion. It is excellent for colic in infants when combined with fennel. It helps produce perspiration without increasing body heat. Catnip can also be used for nervousness or stress and at bedtime as a sleep aid. It is one of the best remedies for stress-induced IBS. The fresh leaf tincture is a strong gastrointestinal anti-spasmodic, but the dried leaf loses most of this property.
An excellent herb for children and babies and generally mild and extremely safe, but in extremely large doses, it can cause vomiting. Avoid during pregnancy.
This can be taken as an infusion, tincture, or glycerite.