Catnip Tea | Catnip for Babies

Catnip for Babies

Catnip leaves have been used for centuries to heal our woes, of the physical variety. It is a natural occurring remedy that comes in close, in a race with over the counter medicines. It soothes, calms, numbs pain, and provides an entertaining past time for your feline. The question of the day: Is Catnip Tea for Babies?

The medical properties of the herb were first cultivated in Asia, specifically China before quickly spreading to Europe and the rest of the world. Its abilities even reached as far West as North America where the Native Americans would use it to cure headaches, sore throats and colicky infants. Our ancestors were aware of the benefits of catnip tea for babies long before we were. It is grown in dry places and along mountain sides up to five-thousand feet in altitude. The plant grows to be approximately three feet high with heart shaped leaves. The leaves have a serrated or toothy appearance and are grey-green in color. These plants bloom and are harvested in the fall and summer. They sport small white and purple flours. They are a member of the mint family and thus give off a similar scent when crushed.

Tea is the most popular form when using catnip. This leafy herb is sold in stores, already in tea form. You can also find this herb in capsule form. It is also easily grown in your own home. You simply crush the leaves yourselves and boil them down to produce that healing tonic. These pleasant tasting herbs can be used for head aches (drink tea or chew the leaves), they are helpful aides in cases of tooth aches (apply to sore area), and are a soothing balm in case of mild skin irritations. This is a plus on the side of catnip tea for babies and adults.

When it comes to medicine for your children, especially infants and toddlers, simple is the best policy. If your infant is colicky, fussy, or having stomach problems (i.e. diarrhea, cramping, bloating) a small bit of the catnip tea will sooth his airs right away. Apply a small amount to your baby’s gums when she is fussy with teething; the poultice will not only calm her but numb the pain as well. Simple is best and so is proportion. When consuming the tea or mixture, small doses are best. In this case you can have too much of a good thing, at least in regards to one dose. Catnip tea for babies is not harmful but if too much could upset their stomachs if given all at once. Try putting a little bit of it in a bottle for them to drink or in the case of tooth aches and teething apply it to the gum instead of having them drink it. Not only will it work faster but you can apply it as needed.

In the history of catnip, many things have been written about it. Most of these texts were praising accounts of its substantial medicinal value. It was also warned however, that this herb should not be taken while pregnant. It is also said that if taken through ingestion for a long period of time, it can interfere with the iron in your body. As any medication, whether natural or laboratory produced, it should not be abused or overused. It is safe to say though that catnip tea for babies is a safe bet and even one that should be tried, for it’s true.

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