Catnip for Humans: How to Make Tea to Treat Fevers and More

You might be surprised to learn that catnip does more than create feelings of euphoria in your cat. It has been used for centuries — and perhaps longer — as a medicinal herb to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive issues and fevers. I prepare catnip as a tea which is soothing and easy to ingest. Best of all, catnip tea is safe for children. Read on to discover the amazing benefits of this underappreciated herb, and learn how to make catnip tea to heal sickness.

What is Catnip?

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a member of the mint family and originated in southern Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. It grows well in Zones 3 through 9 and is now established throughout much of the world. Its name comes from cats’ affinity for this plant as they have often been seen licking and “nipping” the plant as they stroll through the garden. Nepetalactone is the compound in catnip responsible for the stimulating, playful response it causes in cats. Conversely, this compound has a mild sedative effect on humans, which makes it useful as a sleep aid. Catnip has a range of medicinal benefits making it a valuable herb to have stocked in your natural medicine cabinet. Let’s dive into the healing powers of catnip!

Anxiety & Stress Relief

As mentioned, catnip has mild sedative properties which impart a calming effect on the nervous system. This reduces tension and promotes feelings of tranquillity and well-being. Drinking a cup or two of catnip tea when feeling wound up, overwhelmed, or anxious can bring you back to a state of peace. It’s a great way to unwind after a particularly busy or stressful day. I use catnip tea when I’m feeling anxious, and I can attest to its calming effects. I’m amazed at how well it works!

Sleep Aid

Catnip can calm the nerves, making it easier to relax and drift off to sleep. It also eases tense muscles and reduces anxiety and stress, promoting a sense of deep relaxation. Furthermore, catnip is great for relieving tension headaches, making it easier to unwind.

If you suffer from insomnia or have difficulty falling asleep, drinking a cup or two of catnip tea at bedtime can help your body and mind relax, conditions needed to get a good night’s rest.

Digestive Aid

One of catnip’s most important uses historically is as a digestive aid. It’s been used as a home remedy to relieve diarrhea, bloating, gas, and upset stomachs among other digestive complaints. Because catnip is considered a safe herb, mothers have used it to treat colic in their babies as it is an anti-spasmodic, easing stomach discomfort.

Pain Relief

Catnip has analgesic (pain relieving) properties and is effective in treating general aches and pains, including headaches and menstrual cramps. I suffer from mild joint pain from time to time, and drinking catnip tea alleviates the pain. Since nepetalactone has mild sedative and muscle-relaxant effects, it is especially helpful in reducing pain related to headaches and muscle tension. Furthermore, catnip has anti-inflammatory effects, reducing swelling from arthritis and some injuries.

Fever Reduction

I usually give catnip tea to my children when they have a fever, as it has diaphoretic (sweat-inducing) properties. Getting the body to sweat is an effective way to reduce fevers. Some other great ways to break a fever are staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest, which you can accomplish by drinking catnip tea. The calming, relaxing effects of catnip help allay the discomfort experienced with fever and encourage sleep so the body can dedicate more energy to fighting the infection.

Easing Respiratory Ailments

If you’re down with a cold or flu, you may want to make a cup of catnip tea. Drinking a cup of this warm tea can soothe a sore throat and help alleviate congestion. Catnip is a mild expectorant, breaking up phlegm so your body can expel it. It also works with the body’s immune system to fight respiratory infections because of its antimicrobial properties. Add this to the fact that it is a mild sedative that helps you sleep, catnip tea should probably be one of your go-to home remedies when you’re fighting a cold.

Tools Needed

• Tea Steeper/Disposable tea bags – I use these tea bags or this tea strainer
• Tea Kettle/pot
• Mugs

Ingredients

• Dried catnip
• Boiling water
• Lemon (optional)
• Honey or stevia (optional)

How to Make Catnip Tea

Boil water in a kettle or pot.

While water is boiling, add a tablespoon of dried catnip to a tea steeper/disposable tea bag. Place in a mug.

Fill the mug with boiling water. Allow to steep for 10 minutes. Sweeten with a little honey or stevia if desired.

Notes

• Catnip has an earthy, grassy flavour that not everyone enjoys. I combine it with peppermint tea to improve the flavour.
• If using catnip as a sleep aid, you may need to drink 2 or even 3 cups to experience the full effects. The same is true for relieving stress/anxiety.
• Because of its mild sedative effects, catnip tea should not be consumed before driving or operating heavy machinery.
• While generally safe, pregnant women should avoid using catnip.