Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) has been used traditionally as a mild sedative and sleep aid, particularly in Western herbalism. Historically, herbalists in Europe and North America recommended catnip tea for its calming effects, which were thought to assist with nervousness, restlessness, and insomnia. The primary active compound in catnip, nepetalactone, is well known for its effect on cats, but in humans, catnip is believed to exert mild sedative effects, possibly through its interactions with GABAergic pathways in the nervous system, similar to other calming herbs like chamomile and valerian.

However, scientific evidence supporting the use of catnip for insomnia is limited. A few animal studies suggest that catnip extracts may have sedative properties, but high-quality clinical trials in humans are lacking. Most of the evidence for catnip’s sleep-promoting effects comes from anecdotal reports and traditional use rather than rigorous scientific research. As such, catnip remains a popular ingredient in some herbal teas marketed for relaxation and sleep, but its efficacy is not well established by modern science. For those interested in herbal approaches to insomnia, catnip might be considered as part of a traditional herbal blend, but stronger evidence-based alternatives exist.

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