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| Catmint plant flowers |
Nepeta cataria
Family : Lamiaceae
Other common names : Catnip, catnep, catswort and field balm.
Catmint has a long history of use as a household herbal remedy, being employed especially in treating disorders of the digestive system and, as it stimulates sweating, it is useful in reducing fevers. The herbs pleasant taste and gentle action makes it suitable for treating colds, flu and fevers in children. It is more effective when used in conjunction with elder flower (Sambucus nigra). The leaves and flowering tops are strongly antispasmodic, antitussive, astringent, carminative, diaphoretic, slightly emmenagogue, refrigerant, sedative, slightly stimulant, stomachic and tonic. The flowering stems are harvested in August when the plant is in full flower, they are dried and stored for use as required. An infusion produces free perspiration, it is considered to be beneficial in the treatment of fevers and colds. It is also very useful in the treatment of restlessness and nervousness, being very useful as a mild nervine for children. A tea made from the leaves can also be used. The infusion is also applied externally to bruises, especially black eyes
The main effect of catnip, when taken internally, is the sedative effect it has and it is effective for calming a patient and is used with success to induce natural sleep.
It also helps to ease digestion, to treat treat colic and to promote sweating, while controlling the symptoms of diarrhea.
Traditionally it is used for feverish illnesses such as colds and influenza, infections, rheumatism, allergies, as well as headaches, stress and toothaches. It is used in a preparation to reduce swollen eyes and is useful for dandruff and various scalp disorders.
Catmint is also included in ointments to treat hemorrhoids and as a rub for rheumatism and arthritis. It is used as an effective insect and rodent repellant.
Aromatherapy-essential oil use-Catmint-Nepeta cataria-Catnip seeds-Nepeta cataria leaves
herbal preparations-Lamiaceae family Catmint and Dandruff - Catmint Hair problems
Nepeta cataria parts available : Leaves,whoole plant & seeds
More details:
The JK Medicinal Plants
Introduction Centre
POB: 667 GPO Srinagar SGR JK 190001
Ph: 09858986794,01933-223705
e-mail: jkmpic@gmail.com
home: http://jkmpic.blogspot.in
