Famous for its intoxicating effect on felines, Nepeta cataria — Catnip — has a quite different, deeply soothing action on the human nervous system. Native to Europe and Asia and naturalized throughout North America, it was a staple of European household medicine for centuries and one of the most widely recommended herbs for infants and children in the traditional American folk medicine cabinet — used for everything from colic and teething discomfort to childhood fevers and nervous fussiness.
In humans, Catnip acts as a gentle nervine and antispasmodic — calming the nervous system, easing digestive cramping, and promoting restful sleep without sedating deeply. Its key compound nepetalactone (the same molecule that affects cats) has mild relaxing properties in humans and may support the onset of natural perspiration, making it a traditional choice for easing childhood fevers. Catnip is particularly beloved as a children's herb — safe, gentle, and effective for colic, gas, and sleep disturbance in little ones when brewed mildly. For adults, it serves as a pleasant everyday nervine for stress, digestive tension, and mild insomnia. It belongs to the mint family and carries a pleasantly herby, slightly minty aroma. In folk magic traditions, Catnip has long been associated with love, happiness, and good fortune — used in love sachets and spells for drawing affection and joy.
For a classic calming digestive and nervine blend, pair Catnip with our Lemon Balm for its complementary nervine and digestive carminative action, our Egyptian Chamomile for deep anti-inflammatory soothing and digestive comfort, and our Passionflower for enhanced sleep and anxiety support in the evening blend.
Catnip is generally very safe and well tolerated — it is one of the most established gentle herbs for children. Not recommended during pregnancy due to mild uterine-stimulating properties. Those on sedative medications should use with some awareness given its mild sedating action. Very large doses may cause nausea. As always, consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before use, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.
* Gentle nervine and antispasmodic — calms the nervous system and eases digestive cramping
* Traditional children's herb — safe and effective for colic, gas, and fussy sleep
* Supports healthy perspiration during fevers as a mild diaphoretic
* Promotes restful, natural sleep without heavy sedation
* Used in folk magic traditions for love, happiness, and drawing good fortune
* Pleasant minty-herby flavor — enjoyable as an everyday sipping tea
1. Measure 1–2 teaspoons of Catnip Leaf and Flower per 8 oz of water.
2. Pour boiling water over the herb, cover, and steep for 10 minutes.
3. Strain and drink warm.
4. For adults: drink 1–3 cups daily for nervous system and digestive support.
5. For children (2–12 years): steep 1 teaspoon per cup for 5–7 minutes, allow to cool, and give 1/4–1/2 cup as needed for colic, gas, or fussiness. Always consult your pediatrician before using herbs for infants under 2.
For an evening sleep and calm blend, combine with equal parts Lemon Balm and Egyptian Chamomile. This is a beautiful bedtime tea for adults and children alike.
