When most people hear the word catnip, they immediately picture cats rolling happily through a patch of fragrant leaves.

But long before cat videos existed, herbalists were reaching for Catnip (Nepeta cataria) as a gentle botanical traditionally used to support relaxation, digestive comfort, and overall wellness.

Though it may send our feline companions into playful excitement, Catnip often has the opposite effect on people, offering a calming, comforting cup of tea that has been appreciated for generations.

Let's take a closer look at this humble member of the mint family.

What Is Catnip?

Catnip belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is closely related to herbs such as lemon balm, peppermint, and lavender.

Native to Europe and now naturalized throughout much of North America, Catnip is an easy-to-grow perennial recognized by its soft gray-green leaves, square stems, and delicate white flowers with purple markings.

The aerial portions of the plant- the leaves and flowering tops- are traditionally harvested for herbal use.

Materia Medica

Botanical Name: Nepeta cataria

Family: Lamiaceae

Common Names: Catmint, Catnep, Field Balm

Energetics: Cooling • Aromatic • Slightly Bitter • Drying

Planetary Association (Traditional): Venus

Part Traditionally Used: Aerial Parts

Key Constituents

Nepetalactones
Volatile oils
Tannins
Iridoid glycosides
Flavonoids

Traditional Herbal Actions

Catnip has traditionally been regarded as a:

Relaxing nervine
Carminative
Mild diaphoretic
Antispasmodic
Aromatic bitter
Digestive tonic

Why Herbalists Appreciate Catnip

Catnip is one of those herbs that quietly earns a permanent place in many home apothecaries.

Rather than being dramatic, it's gentle.

Rather than forcing the body in one direction, it encourages relaxation while supporting healthy digestion, a combination that's surprisingly helpful because the nervous and digestive systems are so closely connected.

A Gentle Herb for Relaxation

One of Catnip's best-known traditional uses is encouraging a sense of calm.

Many herbalists enjoy preparing Catnip tea during periods of occasional stress, restlessness, or after particularly busy days.

Its mild nature also makes it a popular herb for evening tea blends alongside lemon balm, chamomile, or oat straw.

Supporting Comfortable Digestion

Catnip has long been included in herbal traditions to support digestive comfort.

Its aromatic nature has traditionally made it a favorite after meals or during times of occasional digestive tension.

This combination of digestive and nervous system support is one reason Catnip has remained a staple in traditional Western herbalism.

A Traditional Herb During Seasonal Changes

Traditional herbalists have also valued Catnip as a gentle warming herb that encourages healthy perspiration during seasonal transitions.

It was commonly prepared as a warm tea and enjoyed alongside rest, hydration, and nourishing foods.

Growing Catnip

Catnip is wonderfully easy to grow.

This hardy perennial thrives in sunny gardens with well-drained soil and often reaches two to three feet in height.

Its soft leaves and clusters of white flowers attract pollinators while delighting neighborhood cats, who are especially sensitive to its naturally occurring nepetalactones.

Harvesting is typically done just before or during flowering, when the aromatic oils are at their peak.

Ways to Enjoy Catnip

Tea (Infusion)

Steep 1–2 teaspoons of the dried herb in hot water for about 10 minutes.

Catnip combines beautifully with:

Lemon Balm
Chamomile
Peppermint
Oat Straw
Lavender

Tincture

Follow the manufacturer's recommendations or guidance from a qualified herbal practitioner.

Topical Preparations

Catnip has also been traditionally incorporated into herbal compresses and infused oils intended to soothe and comfort the skin.

Building an Herbal Relationship

One practice I often encourage is simply paying attention.

Before enjoying a cup of Catnip tea, take a moment to notice how you feel.

You might ask yourself:

How would I rate my stress or tension today?
How does my digestion feel?
Am I carrying tightness anywhere in my body?

Then enjoy your tea without expectation.

Fifteen or twenty minutes later, check in with yourself again.

Sometimes herbalism isn't about dramatic changes.

Sometimes it's about becoming more aware of the subtle ways plants invite us to slow down and reconnect with ourselves.

Quality Matters

When choosing Catnip, look for herbs that retain their soft green color and fresh minty aroma.

As with most members of the mint family, the volatile oils gradually diminish over time, so fresher herbs generally provide the best flavor and aroma.

Purchasing organically grown herbs from trusted suppliers helps ensure both quality and sustainability.

Precautions

Catnip has a long history of traditional use and is generally well tolerated by most adults when consumed in typical amounts.

Because it has traditionally been regarded as an emmenagogue, it is generally recommended to avoid Catnip during pregnancy unless advised by a qualified healthcare professional.

As with any herb, individuals taking prescription medications or managing health conditions should consult their healthcare provider before adding new herbal products to their wellness routine.

Final Thoughts

Catnip may always be famous for entertaining cats, but its story doesn't end there.

For centuries, herbalists have appreciated this gentle member of the mint family for its calming nature, pleasant flavor, and versatility in traditional wellness practices.

Sometimes the most remarkable herbs aren't the strongest; they're the ones that quietly remind us to slow down, breathe deeply, and enjoy a simple cup of tea.

Catnip is one of those herbs.

References

Chevallier, A. Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine.
Holmes, P. The Energetics of Western Herbs.
Skenderi, G. Herbal Vade Mecum.
Tierra, M. Planetary Herbology.
Tilgner, S. Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth.
Culpeper, N. Culpeper's Color Herbal.

Disclaimer

The information presented in this article is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Statements regarding herbs and dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before beginning any new herbal regimen, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, taking prescription medications, or managing a medical condition.

About the Author

Hi, I'm Megan, a clinical herbalist, educator, and founder of MEGAN & CO. Apothecary in Spirit Lake, Iowa. I help individuals support their body's natural processes through personalized herbal formulations, nutrition, and traditional Western herbalism. My passion is empowering people with practical herbal knowledge while honoring both traditional wisdom and modern research.

Catnip: More Than Just a Favorite for Cats