Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is most commonly used (in humans at least!) as a soothing tea for the digestion. It is often used in preparations for colic in infants, either alone or in combination with such herbs as fennel. Catnip also works as an antispasmotic and has astringent properties, and can help reduce fever as well.

This is the same catnip used for cats, which will excite and seemingly intoxify susceptible cats. Because the cats do not respond until after they reach puberty, and because of other physiological responses seen in the cats, it is likely that the response for them is more related to hormone-driven ecstasy than intoxification.

Catnip contains volatile oils, tannins, and bitter principle.