The Catnip Foliage, also called the Nepeta Cataria, is a piquant herb native to parts of Eurasia. Areas under this include Europe and southwestern and central Asia. However, in today’s globalized world, this plant can be found in parts of the United States of America as well as Canada.
Further, the catnip foliage, as the name suggests, is a renowned herb for the feline family. Cats are especially attracted to the smell of these plants. However, to be honest, for us humans, this does smell like skunks!
That said, the catnip foliage does have some important medicinal properties, which are still used today through modern-day techniques.
History of Catnip Foliage
The Nepeta Cataria is a subcategory of the family of the herbaceous mint. In ancient days, the Nepeta Cataria was used as an aromatic spice in many soups, stews, sauces, etc. Further, the flowers of the plant were used to produce alcohols such as liquor and wines.
Growth of the Nepeta Cataria
Like many herbal saplings, the catnip foliage can be grown indoors as well as outdoors. An easy way to recognize this plant is through its hue of light green. It produces small groups of lilac, lavender flowers with spikes.
According to many gardeners, the catnip foliage results in a lot of weeds. However, if you are interested in growing the plant, it requires regular amounts of soil, water, and the sun, just like any other plant.
In order to store the plant to activate its medicinal properties, you can freeze the flowers, leaves, and shoots. This preserves the natural oil present in them so that there is less wastage of the essential nutrients.
Medicinal Properties
The catnip foliage is a psychedelic plant that induces a state of euphoria in cats and felines. However, humans can use this to treat various illnesses.
The plant can be used to treat anxiety and is a natural stress buster. It helps to calm the mind. However, it is advised to take this before bed instead of during the day time due to its side-effects.
Further, it can be used as a reliever from indigestion or any gastric problems. Also, it can be used to reduce menstrual cramps in women. However, it should be noted that pregnant ladies should not intake this substance as it could be injurious for them and their unborn child.
Last but not the least, the catnip foliage can be used to treat symptoms of arthritis, normal cold, cough and fever, and other symptoms of known viruses. It can be used as an anti-bacterial in some cases.
There have been many scientific tests which have proved that the catnip foliage is a great way as an insect repellent due to its odor.
Conclusion
The catnip foliage does have certain side effects as no medicine is risk-free. The major impact of this tea is drowsiness. It tends to cause a state of sleepiness, which is why it is advised to take it at night. Further, it may cause headaches and irritation for some people.
Therefore, it is advised to consult your doctor for finding the right consumption amount for you, depending upon your medical history.