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Catnip
Family:
Labiatae |
Latin Name:
Nepeta cataria |
Description
An erect perennial which produces small, whitish or pinkish, purple- or red-dotted flowers. The plant is strongly scented with a mint like odor, rather like pennyroyal.
Common Uses
Catnip has been employed orally to treat colic, diarrhea, flatulence, hiccups, whooping cough, the common cold, measles and chicken pox (reducing the eruptions). It also treats asthma, jaundice, yellow fever, scarlet fever, smallpox, and induces parturition and encourages menstruation. The Chinese consider it bitter, cold, and spicy. They use it to harmonize the liver, nerve and lungs, and in cases of nervous tension due to too much emotional upheaval.
History
By 1265 it was a familiar herb of kitchen gardens in England. During the early medieval period, the leaves and young shoots are known to have been used as a seasoning in the kitchen. In 15th century England, catnip leaves were used for rubbing meats before cooking, and also sprinkled in mixed green salads. Catnip growing near houses has a reputation for repelling rats, no doubt because it attracts cats.
Products Containing this Ingredient
Catnip Leaf, Cert. Organic, Enzymes™ (Formerly Enz®), Liver & Gall Bladder Formula, Relax and De- Stress, Spray, Anti- Flea for Dogs, Flee, Flea!, Tranquil Child
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