Western Herbalism

Catnip

Nepeta cataria

Tradition of Use: Western, European traditional

Mechanism of Action

Mild sedative, antispasmodic, carminative, diaphoretic, nervine

Key Conditions & Uses

Insomnia

anxiety

digestive upset

colic (children)

fever

restlessness

Preparation

Tea, tincture, capsule

Dosage

1-2g dried herb tea 3x daily or 2-4ml tincture

Active Compounds

Nepetalactone, volatile oils, tannins

Interactions

May potentiate sedatives

Contraindications

Pregnancy (emmenagogue properties)

Evidence Level & Clinical Notes

Evidence Level:

Limited - traditional calming use

Clinical Notes:

Safe for children; gentle nervine; calming but not strongly sedating; cats love it (stimulates them, sedates humans)

Conditions This Helps

Insomnia / Sleep Issues Anxiety & Depression

Quick Overview

TraditionWestern Herbalism

GBS Score65/100

Key Uses6

Key Points

Evidence-based information

Traditional wisdom

Safety information

Clinical applications

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