Synopsis

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

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine for calming the nerves and addressing various symptoms associated with nervous exhaustion, such as restlessness, anxiety, and insomnia. The herb was commonly used in European folk medicine, where it was prepared as teas or infusions to induce mild sedation and relaxation. Herbalists in the 18th and 19th centuries often recommended catnip for "nervousness," "hysteria," and exhaustion, associating its gentle effects with an ability to soothe the nervous system.

Scientifically, catnip contains compounds such as nepetalactone, which are best known for their effects on cats, but which also exhibit mild sedative and antispasmodic properties in humans. However, rigorous clinical studies evaluating catnip's efficacy for nervous exhaustion specifically are lacking. Most available information consists of traditional accounts and anecdotal evidence, and modern research has focused more on its effects in animals and as a mild relaxant in herbal blends. The evidence for its use in nervous exhaustion is therefore primarily traditional, supported by historical texts and herbal compendia, rather than validated by contemporary scientific research. As such, its evidence rating is relatively low, reflecting the need for more robust human trials.

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