Catnip
Botanical name: (Nepeta cataria)
Also Known As: Catnip, catswort, or catmint
Catnip is an invaluable remedy for respiratory infections — taken as a hot tea it increases perspiration and effectively brings down fevers, and acts as a decongestant. Catnip should be taken frequently at the first signs of colds or flu, and is also helpful in bronchitis and asthma, as well as eruptive infections such as chicken pox measles.
Throughout history, catnip has been used by man to produce a calming, sedate state of mind, without intoxication — to help open channels for spiritual meditation.
Catnip is a wonderful remedy for babies and children; being calming and relaxing it will relieve restlessness and induce sleep. Its relaxant effect is also felt in the digestive tract where it relieves tension and colic, wind and pain — excellent for babies who have wind or colic or trouble sleeping. A strong infusion will relax headaches related to tension.
Mashed fresh catnip leaves or the dried herb powder can be used as a crude poultice application directly to sore gums or aching teeth, to relieve the intense pain and suffering. If the powder is to be used, a piece of cotton is moistened with water and then some of the powder applied on the surfaces, after which the cotton is put into the mouth and held firmly against the aching tooth or just rubbed on the gums for quick relief. The fresh leaves seem to bring nearly instant relief, while the dried powder takes a little longer to work.
Wild catnip is incredibly potent, much more potent than varieties which are cultivated for domesticated markets.
Note: These statements have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration, and this product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. We at eSutras do not recommend internal use of supplements or herbs without prior consultation with your doctor or herbalist.
