Catnip: Benefits, Taste, and How to Steep It
Not just for cats. Learn how catnip steeps into a gentle, minty cup for calm evenings and easier sleep.
Meet the ingredient
What is Catnip ?
Catnip, scientifically known as Nepeta cataria, is an herb that is renowned for its effect on cats, inducing playful and euphoric behaviors when they come into contact with it. However, catnip also has applications for humans. It has been traditionally used in herbal medicine to alleviate various health issues, including digestive discomfort, anxiety, insomnia, and cold symptoms. Catnip can be consumed as a soothing tea, and its mild sedative properties can promote relaxation and aid in stress reduction, making it a valuable addition to herbal remedies for humans. Additionally, catnip is occasionally used as a culinary herb in certain dishes, adding a subtle minty and earthy flavor to recipes.
- OriginEurope & Asia
- FlavorMinty & Earthy
Botanical origins
The Catnip family tree
Scientifically known as Nepeta cataria, catnip belongs to the Lamiaceae family, commonly known as the mint family. This herbaceous perennial plant is native to Europe and Asia but has naturalized in North America and other temperate regions worldwide. Catnip typically grows to a height of 50-100 cm, featuring sturdy, square stems and heart-shaped, toothed leaves with a soft, downy texture. The plant produces small, white to lavender flowers arranged in dense spikes.
The genus name Nepeta is believed to be derived from the ancient Etruscan city of Nepete (modern-day Nepi, Italy), where the plant was likely cultivated. The species name cataria is derived from the Latin word 'catus', meaning 'cat', referring to the plant's well-known effect on felines. Catnip has a long history of use in traditional medicine, dating back to ancient Rome, where it was used to treat digestive issues, respiratory ailments, and as a mild sedative. The plant's essential oil, particularly the compound nepetalactone, is responsible for its characteristic effects on cats, causing temporary euphoria and playful behavior.
Health benefits
What Catnip brings to the cup...
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Catnip has mild sedative properties that can help alleviate stress and anxiety. Drinking catnip tea may promote relaxation and calmness.
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Due to its calming effects, catnip tea is often used as a natural remedy to improve sleep quality and treat insomnia.
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Catnip can soothe digestive discomfort, such as indigestion, gas, and bloating. It may also help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
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Catnip tea may help alleviate symptoms of the common cold and flu, including fever, congestion, and coughing.
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Catnip's mild euphoric effects may elevate mood and provide a sense of well-being.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
History
History of Catnip
Catnip (Nepeta cataria) has a centuries-old history, originating in Europe and Asia and later introduced to North America by early European settlers. It has been used traditionally in herbal medicine to address issues like digestion, sleep, anxiety, and pain. Catnip is also renowned for its intriguing effect on cats, thanks to compounds like nepetalactone. This unique history has made catnip a valuable herb for both human remedies and feline entertainment.
- Herbal tea Caffeine free
- White tea Low caffeine
- Green tea Low caffeine
- Black tea Medium caffeine
- Matcha High caffeine
Levels are typical; steep time and leaf amount change them.
Caffeine
Catnip is naturally caffeine free!
Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a caffeine-free herb, making it a suitable choice for those looking to avoid caffeine in their beverages. When prepared as an herbal infusion or tea, it provides a soothing and caffeine-free option for relaxation and potential health benefits. This lack of caffeine in catnip makes it an excellent choice for individuals who are sensitive to caffeine or prefer non-caffeinated herbal alternatives.
Taste
What does Catnip taste like?
Catnip tea has a mild and pleasant flavor profile with subtle earthy and slightly minty notes. The taste is often described as gently herbal and somewhat grassy, with a touch of sweetness. It's a soothing and mild herbal tea that is well-tolerated by most palates. While it may not have the bold flavors of some other herbal teas, catnip tea offers a subtle and calming taste that can be enjoyed on its own or blended with other herbs for added complexity.
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Making the tea
Steep Catnip tea like this...
Heat
Boil fresh, filtered water and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Heat
- Measure
- Steep
- Remove
- Enjoy
Where to buy
Where can I buy Organic Catnip?
You can find Organic Catnip on our website! We are USDA certified organic, and our products are vegan and free of GMOs. Try it out today!
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