Catnip

Catnip is a natural herb that many believed originated in the various areas of Europe. This particular herb is also known as “catmint”, and “field balm”. This herb is a part of the family of herbs that are considered “mints”. The plant is relatively small and displays fuzzy leaves that are generally gray to green in color. In the summer months, the plant blooms flowers that are white. When the catnip plant is in full bloom, it is processed for use as a natural herb. Prior to use, it must be completely dried. Many uses have been found for catnip, and you will discover a few of those uses here.

It has been discovered by many to be an excellent insect repellent. Many pesticides and insect repellents that are sold commercially contain parts of the catnip plant in order to achieve success in warding off certain insects. Recent research conducted by the Forest Service USDA team has found that when catnip is used against termites, it not only repels the wood eating insects, but it has also been proven to be effective in killing these insects. Recent experiments with catnip and cockroach infestations concluded that it is an effective repellent for this type of insect as well.

Catnip is also provided to cats as an intoxicating, yet playful formula for exciting the little creatures. In those cats that are sensitive to the natural herbal product of catnip, you will find that they will roll around, jump, run, and play when introduced to the substance. Generally, this “high” to the catnip only provides a few minutes of excitement for the cat. However, not all cats are affected in the same way. As a matter of fact, most cats do not react to catnip whatsoever. There are quite a few, though, that do. Once the effect of the catnip has worn out on the felines that have been affected, they generally get preoccupied with something else. Within a few hours, you may find that the feline is back and the catnip has the exact same reaction as it did initially.

Many would believe that if a person is introduced to catnip, it would have the same effects as it does on a feline. However, this just is not the case. Individuals who take catnip by way of an oral dosage, or tea, benefits in that high levels of anxiety are reduced, nervous disorders are eased, and even those with insomnia benefit from ingesting this particular natural herb. While it causes cats to become exceptionally active, catnip contains sedative properties when it comes to humans. Individuals who are interested in taking catnip can purchase it in capsule or liquid form. There are places that sell straight dried catnip so that teas and other substances can be brewed.

There are a number of other medical conditions and symptoms that catnip can help with. Many individuals who suffer from the effects of long lasting headaches and migraines can benefit from taking catnip supplements. Those who have suffered injury to the muscles and tissues in the body have experienced comfort once taking this herbal remedy. Then, catnip has been proven to be effective in cases of gastrointestinal discomfort. Those who have experienced colic, cramping in the abdomen, high amounts of discomforting gas, and even indigestion due to Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and other diseases have been relieved upon taking catnip.