Natural Society April 14 2013
When you think of catnip (Nepeta cataria), you may picture a kitty rolling around in a blissful, abnormal state. But this plant is so much more than a cat’s version of cannabis – it’s a powerful healer for humans too. And because it’s part of the Lamiaceae (mint) family, it’s exceptionally easy to grow!
Also known as catswort, catmint, and sometimes called catnep, catnip is native to Europe and parts of Asia, but is now grown all over the globe. The plant looks similar to other mints, with bright green and coarse-toothed leaves. The flowers of the catnip plant tend to be white with pale purple or pink spots.
History and Lore of Catnip
Before the arrival of Chinese teas, Europeans often used catnip to make their favorite decoctions. Historically, it wasn’t only cats who got a sort of buzz from the plant, it was documented that people too experienced interesting moods when eating catnip. In one story, it is said that an executioner self-medicated with the herb in order to give himself the courage needed to carry out his daily hangings.
The healing properties of the plant have long been recognized as well—being used as everything from a sedative for children to seemingly contradictory use as a energy-enhancing herb for adults.