Catnip tea is a herbal tea made from the leaves and flowers of the catnip plant (Nepeta cataria), a member of the mint family. Catnip is well known for its effect on cats, but it is also commonly used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of human ailments, including insomnia, anxiety, and digestive issues. Some people also believe that catnip tea can have a sedative effect on humans, but the evidence to support this claim is limited.

There are several active compounds in catnip that are believed to have medicinal properties, including nepetalactone, which is responsible for the plant’s characteristic odor and its effect on cats. Nepetalactone is also believed to have sedative properties and may help to promote relaxation and sleep in humans.

However, there have been few studies specifically examining the effects of catnip tea on human sleep or anxiety. One small study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research in 2005 found that a combination of valerian root and catnip extract improved sleep quality in participants with insomnia, but it is unclear whether the catnip extract alone was responsible for this effect.

Another study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2012 found that a combination of catnip and lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) had a calming effect on participants with mild-to-moderate anxiety, but again, it is unclear whether the catnip alone was responsible for this effect.

While there is limited scientific evidence to support the use of catnip tea as a sedative or sleep aid, many people do report feeling relaxed and sleepy after drinking the tea. This may be due to the placebo effect or the general relaxing properties of herbal teas.

It is worth noting that catnip tea may interact with certain medications, including sedatives and blood thinners, so it is important to talk to a healthcare provider before using catnip tea for medicinal purposes. Additionally, catnip tea should be avoided by pregnant or breastfeeding women and anyone with a history of liver disease or allergy to the mint family.

In conclusion, while there is some anecdotal evidence to suggest that catnip tea may have a sedative effect on humans, the scientific evidence is limited. More research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of catnip tea as a medicinal herb. If you are considering using catnip tea for its potential health benefits, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider and proceed with caution.

Read more:How to Make Catnip Tea for Cats