Papaya - a world class meat tenderizer, natural digestive aid, prevents ulcers, and also a soft contact lense cleaner.Healing with Catnip
Studies show catnip is definitely not just for cats. Modern herbalists tend to overstate its value, but scientists have confirmed several of its traditional uses.
Digestive Aid - Like the other mints, catnip may soothe the smooth muscles ofthe digestive tract (making it an antispasmodic). Have a cup of catnip tea after meals if you’re prone to indigestion or heartburn.
Women’s Health - Antispasmodics calm not only the digestive tract but other smooth muscles as well-the uterus, for example. Catnip’s antispasmodic effect supports its traditional use for relieving menstrual cramps.
Catnip was also used traditionally as a menstruation promoter. Current research suggests it should not stimulate the uterus, but pregnant women should exercise caution and not use medicinal amounts.
Tranquilizer - German researchers report the chemicals (nepetalactone isomers) responsible for cats’ intoxication are similar to the natural sedatives (valepotriates) in valerian. This finding supports catnip’s traditional use as a mild tranquilizer and sedative. Try a cup of tea when you feel tense or before bed and see if it works for you.
Infection Prevention - Catnip also has some antibiotic properties, which lends credence to its traditional use in some cases of diarrhea and fever. As an antibiotic, catnip is not particularly powerful, but it may help prevent infection after garden mishaps.
Rx for Catnip
Enjoya pleasant, minty infusion of catnip as a digestive aid, as a mild tranquilizer, or to soothe menstrual cramps.
For an infusion, use 2 teaspoons of dried herb per cup of boiling water. Steep 10 to 20 minutes. Do not boil catnip; boiling dissipates its healing oil. Drink up to 3 cups a day.
If you prefer a tincture, take ½ to 1 teaspoon up to three times a day.
Weak, cool catnip infusions may be given cautiously to colicky infants. For older children and people over 65, start with low-strength preparations and increase strength if necessary.
To treat minor garden mishaps, press some crushed catnip leaves into cuts and scrapes on your way to washing and bandaging them.