Nepeta cataria is native to Europe and parts of Asia and is commonly known as Catnip, Catswort and Catmint.
In Western herbal medicine, Catnip has been used as a traditional cold and flu remedy, being used as a diaphoretic which is helpful in
feverish conditions. It was once commonly used as an insect repellent and used externally to reduce itching in eczema.
Recent studies have shown the antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of which the known active compound, nepetalactone,
has been demonstrated responsible. Research has also shown that its essential oils hold anti-inflammatory properties.