Catnip Tea
Catnip is a valuable remedy for many different ailments, including respiratory infections, congestion, fevers, general colds or flu symptoms, asthma, bronchitis, measles, and chicken pox, among many others. It brings down fevers, induces sleep, and relieves restlessness. Some parents choose to use natural combinations of herbs including catnip to treat mild cases of ADD or ADHD.
Catnip is a plant of the mint family which grows in a perennial manner. It is characterized by its hairy, branching, square, erect stems which grow 3-5 feet tall. The cordate or oblong, pointed leaves are characterized by whitish or gray hairs on the lower side and scalloped edges. Flowers of the catnip plant are white with purple spots. Plants grow in spikes, generally from June thru September.
The number one derivative of catnip, nepelactone, is chemically similar to the sedative qualities found in the valerian root herb. It stands to reason, therefore, that catnip tea taken before bed will produce restful sleep, an increase in the total sleeping time.
Catnip tea is a soothing remedy used by adults and children, although it is favored for children to relieve nervous tension, fevers, and teething pain. It has a natural, mild nature, making it a perfect remedy for many of the common childhood complaints. It is a must for inclusion in any mother’s medicine cabinet or pantry. Hyperactive children can also be calmed with a small cup of catnip tea, slightly warm, sweetened with a teaspoon of dissolved honey.
Catnip tea can be combined with other ingredients, such as Chamomile, for a milder aroma and flavor. Using pure, organic herbs will provide the maximum potency and quality.
In order to make catnip tea, pour one cup of boiling water over three teaspoons of fresh catnip leaves or one teaspoon of dried catnip. You may also choose to add dried catnip to your favorite black teas along with dried lemon balm or mint.
Catnip tea can be sipped slowly or it can be frozen into ice pops to aid in teething. The remedy has worked remarkably well for many infants and young children with excellent results. Many parents choose to use this catnip tea blend for themselves as well since it has a relaxing and calming effect.
Strong brews of catnip tea is an effective eyewash as well. The remedy relieves swelling and inflammation when caused by certain airborne allergies, excessive alcoholic intake such as in bloodshot eye syndrome, and swelling related to the cold or flu. It can be flushed directly into the infected eye or soaked into a terry-cloth towel, warmed, and applied over the eye for thirty minutes. Some relief can also be realized when using warm, wrung out catnip tea bags.
Filed Under catnip tea | Leave a Comment
Tagged With catnip, catnip herb, catnip tea, Catnip Tea benefits, herbs, tea
Comments
Leave a Reply