Catnip, also known as Nepeta cataria, is a strong-smelling plant used as a cure-all for a number of health issues, including nervousness, stress, pain, flatulence, and restlessness.
Let’s talk about the health benefits of catnip.
Aids Weight Loss
Catnip possesses diaphoretic properties that induce perspiration as well as stimulates the elimination of toxins from the body via sweats. The removal of these toxins actually improves metabolism, thus increasing the rate of fat burning and weight loss.
Treats Nervous Disorders
The nervine properties of the catnip essential oil are effective for soothing the nervous system and treating a range of nerve-related illnesses, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and vertigo. The herb strengthens the nerves and stimulates their performance.
Relieves Fever
The diaphoretic abilities of catnip are considered effective in relieving fever. It induces excessive perspiration and so helps to bring down the high temperature.
Has Diuretic Properties
The diuretic properties of catnip can induce regular urination, especially for people who suffer from renal failure. Catnip tea not only helps to boost urination, it eliminates wastes from the kidneys as well, and so accelerates healing.
Relieves Bloating
Catnip is a carminative that helps in relieving bloating and flatulence by the removal of the gases. You can either use it as an essential oil or teas.
Relieves Gastrointestinal Issues
Catnip is effective for soothing an upset stomach, as well as reduces the acid amounts to eliminate heartburn and indigestion. It also relieves stomach ache, gas, and bloating.
Treats Dandruff
The astringent and antiseptic properties of catnip help in the treatment of dandruff brought on by an irritated scalp. You only need to apply the herb to the scalp and hair, then wash off after a while.
Possesses Anti-Inflammatory Properties
One of the strengths of catnip is its anti-inflammatory component which may help to treat arthritis, hemorrhoids, painful joints, gout, and sprained muscles. Regularly using catnip tea, leaves, or juice can be very helpful.
Delays Early Aging
Catnip leaves contain substantial amounts of antioxidants that help to eliminate the radicals present in the body. These radicals, if not checked can result in fine lines, wrinkles, and sags which are all indications of premature aging.
Relieves Digestive Problems
Catnip is very helpful in clearing up digestive issues such as excessive flatulence, constipation, bloating, and cramping. The anti-inflammatory and soothing effects of the herb can reduce inflammation and discomfort in the gut.
Has Astringent Properties
The astringent components of catnip help to tighten loose muscles and the skin. After using for a long time, the herb protects the body, accelerates skin repair procedure, and delays early aging to a large extent.
Cures Headaches
Although the exact mechanism is not entirely understood, catnip has shown to be quite effective in treating headaches as well as long-term migraines. By drinking catnip tea or applying the catnip essential oil or leaf salve on the affected spot can provide quick relief.
Treats Cold and Flu
Catnip is one potent home remedy for cold and flu as the compounds present in the herb contain antiviral and antibacterial properties that potentially boost immunity. Also, it could help break a fever and bring the body temperature down.
Contains Nutrients
While eating catnip leaves is not common, the herb actually contains a good number of nutrients, including minerals, vitamins, and essential acids that the body needs.
Provide Stress Relief
Just like catnip is so effective on cats, particularly in sedating them and making them “high”, it is also effective on humans. Catnip relieves chronic stress and lowers tension as well as strengthen the immune system.
Treats Skin Conditions
The organic components of the herb make it an excellent remedy for soothing bug stings and treating irritation on the skin. By using salves or infusions on the broken or irritated skin can speed up the healing process and lower inflammation almost instantly.
Speeds up the Healing Process
Regarding colds and flu, catnip helps to eliminate the toxins flushed out of the system. The herb is also one of the fastest ways to cleanse the body via perspiration, which is particularly the case with fevers. Catnip induces perspiration and so helps to treat the common cold.
Relieves Menstrual Cramps
For women who suffer from debilitating menstrual cramps, catnip tea is usually recommended as an additional treatment, as it may easily reduce the cramps and strains it puts on the body. Additionally, the herb is a sedative and its relaxing effects soothes other obvious symptoms of menstruation, including mood swings as well as depression.
Induces Sleep
People suffering from insomnia, irregular sleep patterns, and restlessness use catnip for its sedative nature which helps to slow down the natural cycles of the body. It also allows for a relaxed and comfortable state of mind. People are able to sleep better at night just by making the choice to drink catnip tea.
Side Effects and Precautions
While catnip possesses a host of health benefits, it also has a number of side effects. For instance, pregnant women and lactating mothers should take advice from their doctors before using this herb to avoid negative effects.
Evidently, catnip has its trove of benefits – for the skin, hair, and overall health. However, it’s strongly advised to consult a medical practitioner before using the herb.
