Catnip (Nepeta faassenii) is a perennial aromatic plant, decorative and medicinal, often confused with catnip (Nepeta cataria), but with its own therapeutic properties and a milder scent that brings notes of lavender and mint. It is highly valued both in gardens for the beauty of its blue-violet flowers and in phytotherapy for its calming, digestive, and natural insect-repelling effects.
Scientific name: Nepeta faassenii
Family: Lamiaceae
Other names: catnip, ornamental mint, wild lavender
Therapeutic Benefits – How It Works
Nervous Calming and Anxiolytic
The volatile oils in Nepeta faassenii have a relaxing effect on the nervous system. It is used in teas or tinctures to soothe agitation, mild insomnia, and stress. The active principle called nepetalactone has effects similar to valerian, inducing a state of calm and emotional balance.
Mild Digestive Aid
Infusions made from the leaves help calm the stomach, reducing bloating and abdominal discomfort. This plant gently stimulates bile secretion and supports the digestive process without irritating the gastric mucosa.
Mild Diuretic and Detoxifying
It has a mild diuretic effect, contributing to the elimination of excess water from the body and aiding kidney health. It supports the detoxification of the liver and urinary tract.
Natural Insect Repellent
The essential oils from the leaves have repellent effects against mosquitoes and flies. Studies have shown that nepetalactone can be more effective than DEET in some cases, without toxic effects on the skin.
Adjunct in Mild Respiratory Infections
It has mild expectorant and antiseptic effects, being useful in colds, irritating coughs, or allergic rhinitis, especially when combined with other plants like thyme or linden.
Usage
Calming Tea
- 1 tablespoon of dried plant (leaves and flowers)
- 200 ml boiling water
Infuse for 10 minutes. Drink 1-2 cups per day, preferably in the evening, for a mild sedative effect.
Catnip Tincture
- 100 g fresh crushed plant
- 500 ml 40% food-grade alcohol
Let it macerate for 14 days, then strain. Administer 20 drops in a little water, twice a day, to calm anxiety or digestive cramps.
Insect Repellent Spray
- 50 ml distilled water
- 20 ml alcohol
- 15 drops of essential oil of Nepeta faassenii (or oil macerate)
Shake well and apply to skin or clothing before going outdoors.
Relaxing Bath
Add 2-3 handfuls of dried plant in a muslin bag and place it in the bath. The water will become mildly aromatic and calming, ideal for the evening.
Contraindications and Precautions
Nepeta faassenii is generally safe, but:
- Not recommended during pregnancy (muscle-relaxing effects may induce contractions).
- Not recommended for individuals with severe hypotension.
- Avoid excessive internal use, especially in conjunction with sedatives or antidepressants.
- Pure essential oil should not be applied directly to the skin without dilution.
Sources:
- Journal of Medical Entomology – Nepetalactone: A potent mosquito repellent
- Phytotherapy Research – Anxiolytic-like effects of Nepeta species in rodent models
- BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies – Phytochemical and biological evaluation of Nepeta faassenii extracts
