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Catnip
Nepeta cataria Labiatae
Catnip is one of the traditional cold and flu remedies.
Common namescatmint, catnep
HabitatA common European herb, cultivated in Britain and the USA
Constituents Volatile oil, carvacrol, citronellal, nerol, geraniol, pulegone, thymol and nepetalic acid
Iridoids, including epideoxyloganic acid and 7- deoxyloganic acid, tannins
Iridoids, including epideoxyloganic acid and 7- deoxyloganic acid, tannins
Actions carminative, anti-spasmodic, diaphoretic, nervine, astringent
Indications
Catnip is one of the traditional cold and flu remedies. It is a useful diaphoretic helpful in any feverish condition, especially acute bronchitis. As a carminative with anti-spasmodic properties, Catnip eases any stomach upsets, dyspepsia, flatulence and colic. It is a perfect remedy for the treatment of diarrhoea in children. Its sedative action on the nerves adds to its generally relaxing properties.
CombinationMay be used with boneset, elder, yarrow or cayenne in colds.
Preparation & dosage
- Infusion
- Pour a cup of boiling water onto 2 teaspoonfuls of the dried herb and leave to infuse for 10-15 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day.
- Tincture
- Take 2-4 ml of the tincture three times a day.
© David L. Hoffmann B.Sc. (Hons), M.N.I.M.H.