Family Name: Labiatae
Botanical Name(s): Nepeta Cataria.
Popular Name(s): Catmint, Catnep, Catrup, Catswort and Field
Balm.
Parts Used: Leaves and Herbs.
Habitat: It is a native of Central and the Southern counties of
England.
Description: Catnip is a perennial herb of the mint family. Its
erect, branching stem is hairy and grows from 3 to 5 feet high. The
leaves have scalloped edges and gray or whitish hairs on the lower side.
The flowers are white with purple spots.
Uses: It also helps to ease digestion, to treat colic and to
promote sweating, while controlling the symptoms of diarrhea.
Traditionally, it is used for feverish illnesses such as colds and
influenza, infections, rheumatism, allergies, as well as headaches,
stress and tooth aches. It is used in a preparation to reduce swollen
eyes and is useful for dandruff and various scalp disorders. Catmint is
also included in ointments to treat hemorrhoids and as a rub for
rheumatism and arthritis.
