By Alexandra Hoover [reposted from our sister blog]

If you’ve ever wanted to experience firsthand what catnip is all about, you may want to make this catnip tea. It also includes chamomile, lemon balm, mint, and lemongrass. You need half a cup of catnip, a fourth of a cup of mint, a fourth of a cup of lemongrass, three-fourths of a cup of chamomile, and one cup of dried lemon balm.

This recipe is especially worthwhile if you have a garden. If you have been growing catnip, but don’t have a cat, here is your chance to try something new and appropriate. (Yes, catnip can be used by humans!)

To prepare it, mix all the ingredients together. Make sure you keep them in a sealed container until you want to make the tea. When you are ready for your catnip delight, put two teaspoons in a mug of boiling water for a maximum of five minutes. Take the herbs out, unless you prefer your tea to be strong. In that case, enjoy them in your cup for as long as you like.

Catnip tea does not produce the same affects on humans as it does cats. After drinking a sip, you won’t roll around on the floor, pouncing on imaginary objects. It is calming and welcome after a stressful day or taxing activity.

In addition to the tea’s sedative qualities, it provides numerous health benefits. For instance, catnip tea will relax your muscles and relieve nervousness. It also possesses anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. It is beneficial for most people with one exception–avoid drinking this tea if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Whether your cat will drink this tea is another story altogether. Stick to the liquid variety and your cat will stick to the herb.

Fact: Did you know that catnip belongs to the mint family?