Catmint (Catnip)
Nepeta cataria
Family : Lamiaceae
Other common names :
Catnip,
catnep,
catswort and
field balm.
Catmint has a long history of use as a household
herbal remedy,
being employed especially in treating disorders of the digestive system
and, as it stimulates sweating, it is useful in reducing fevers. The
herbs pleasant taste and gentle action makes it suitable for treating
colds, flu and fevers in children. It is more effective when used in
conjunction with elder flower (Sambucus nigra). The leaves and flowering
tops are strongly antispasmodic, antitussive, astringent, carminative,
diaphoretic, slightly emmenagogue, refrigerant, sedative, slightly
stimulant, stomachic and tonic. The flowering stems are harvested in
August when the plant is in full flower, they are dried and stored for
use as required. An infusion produces free perspiration, it is
considered to be beneficial in the treatment of fevers and colds. It is
also very useful in the treatment of restlessness and nervousness, being
very useful as a mild nervine for children. A tea made from the leaves
can also be used. The infusion is also applied externally to bruises,
especially black eyes
The main effect of catnip, when taken internally, is the sedative effect
it has and it is effective for calming a patient and is used with
success to induce
natural sleep. It also helps to ease digestion, to treat treat colic and to promote sweating, while controlling the symptoms of diarrhea. Traditionally it is used for feverish illnesses such as colds and
influenza, infections, rheumatism, allergies, as well as headaches,
stress and toothaches. It is used in a preparation to reduce swollen
eyes and is useful for
dandruff and various scalp disorders.
Catmint is also included in ointments to
treat hemorrhoids and as a rub for
rheumatism and
arthritis. It is used as an effective insect and rodent repellant.
Aromatherapy-
essential oil use-
Catmint-
Nepeta cataria-
Catnip seeds-
Nepeta cataria leaves
herbal preparations-
Lamiaceae family Catmint and Dandruff -
Catmint Hair problems
More details:
The JK Medicinal Plants
Introduction Centre
POB: 667 GPO Srinagar SGR JK 190001
Ph: 09858986794,01933-223705
e-mail: jkmpic@gmail.com
home:
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