Catnip - Fun, Functional & Not Just For Felines!

• Posted on 16 October 2018
• By Dr. Jill Tack
• Posted in bronchitis, cat, catnip, cold and flu season, dog, intestinal gas, nerves, toothache, vomiting
• 0

Catnip isn't just for cats anymore! Catnip can help aid in a number of wellness-related health needs in both humans and cats and dogs alike.

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a member of the mint family recognizable by its square stem. If the stem doesn't tip you off, the nose knows as most cat lovers can sniff out that strong aroma of this favorite cat treat easily. 

Benefits of Cat Nip

Besides being a euphoric plant to cats, catnip can help expel intestinal gas, alleviate vomiting, and calm over-anxious or nervous dogs and children. For stomach disorders, catnip combines well with fennel to alleviate any nervous vomiting.

Because of its powerful diaphoretic properties, catnip is a go-to herb for cold and flu season and incredibly helpful for bronchitis and feverish conditions. Other ailments catnip is known to alleviate are chicken pox, colic, headaches, and irregular menses. It can also be used as a diuretic, mild sedative, and to induce sleep. The leaves can also be chewed to relieve toothaches.

This plant is easy to grow and spreads with every season. Don't be fooled into thinking this is peppermint, spearmint or lemon balm plant. Some people have even confused it with a marijuana plant. So give catnip some consideration when looking to alleviate a host of wellness needs, whether human or pet! Shop our selection of catnip products available at our online store or visit us at The Pet Beastro to find out more about this helpful plant.