My cats love it, but there are many great reasons for people to choose this nerve-toning herb too. While catnip is stimulating to cats, it is relaxing to us. Because of these benefits, catnip can be a good option for restlessness, insomnia, and nervous headaches. It also helps relax tense muscles and ease muscle spasms. For this reason, some women use catnip for menstrual cramps. Like its close cousin lemonbalm, catnip has a pleasant lemony taste that can make it a great choice for a soothing tea. It is also a popular addition to make herbal blends taste better.
Catnip is a great herb for children too because of the good taste and gentle effect on the body. It can be used for insomnia or excitability in children. It is good for upset stomachs and other digestive complaints. Catnip has some antiviral activities and can help break a fever. It also helps ease coughs. These actions make it a good herb for children during cold and flu season.
I find catnip very easy to grow as long as my cats don’t destroy it when it is small. I bring the fresh leaves inside for my cats, but also see them in the garden eating it and rolling around in it. Catnip is reputed to be a nerve tonic for cats, so their brains actually benefit from the “buzz” they get. I also love catnip for its scientific name: Nepeta cataria. If fact, I used to have a cat by this name. Her nickname was Nip.
Dr. Laurell Matthews, ND 
My neighbor has a TON of this in her front yard. Upon googling images of catnip, I found your site. Never knew this mint was good for so many things. 🙂
Thanks for reading. Yes, one of the other great things about catnip is that it grows prolifically, unless you have really aggressive cats.
That’s cool!! Will catnip have these benefits if used as an herb in food dishes, or does it need to be tea?
Yes, you can cook with it and get some of the same benefits. I am not sure if the flavor will be great, but let me know if you have a good recipe.
I don’t have a recipe, but I might look one up or just try it in something. 🙂