The Benefits Of Drinking Catnip Tea

Catnip is most known for it's effects on our cuddly feline friends. Most do not realize that catnip has been used medicinally for thousands of years to cure many ailments known to man.

Catnip is a member of the mint family. The flowers the plant produces are absolutly beautiful with colors of lavender or white, the herb also produces fuzzy heart-shaped leaves. Catnip has created a much different reaction in cats than it does in humans. Catnip triggers chemicals in the brain of the feline which causes temporary insanity and intoxication, while in humans it has a much different effect leaving you feeling soothed and calm.

Now let's learn how catnip tea can improve our health as well as cure common ailments.

Tea Preparation

Pour one cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon catnip leaves. Steep for 8-10 minutes covered to prevent beneficial oils from evaporating from the tea. If you prefer, add a touch of honey for sweetness.

Medicinal Uses

~Drink one cup to ease indegestion

~Drink one cup to release stomach cramping and pain

~Drink one cup to relieve cold and flu symptoms

~Drink one cup warm tea for heartburn or indigestion

~Add honey to tea for chest congestion

Catnip tea can relieve congestion by inhaling the tea. You can either make yourself a nice hot cup and inhale the vapors or make a catnip tea bath. To do this, place a large tablespoon of catnip into a muslin bag or tea ball and drop into water. Allow to steep for a few minutes. Hop in and enjoy the soothing aroma as it opens up your chest.

Because of the amazing soothing and calming properties catnip tea is often recommended for infants and children. They too can enjoy the yummy tea and the vapors it produces as well as bathe in it. Of course, you should consult your pediatritian first.

Here are a few catnip tea recipes to try. The tea alone is very powerful but adding herbs can always increase the benefits.

Fever Reducing

2 tsp. catnip

1 tsp. dried vervain

Pour 2 cups boiling water over the herbs and allow to steep for 5-10 minutes. Strain the tea. Sip often to promote sweating until your fever breaks.

For Cold & Flu

1 tsp. catnip

1/2 tsp. yarrow

1/2 tsp. angelica

Pour 2 cups boiling water over herbs and steep for 5-10 minutes. Strain the mixture. Drink a cup every few hours to alleviate symptoms.

Indigestion

1 tsp. catnip

1/2 tsp. fennel

1/2 tsp. lemon balm

Pour 2 cups boiling water over herbs and allow to steep for 5 minutes, strain the herbs. Sweeten lightly with honey. Sip tea slowly to reduce stomach pain.Next time you have a cold/flu or have an upset stomach, try catnip tea before you head to your local drug store or medicine cabinet. You will feel better knowing you are curing your body naturally.