Catnip, Not Just for Kitties

     If you have a cat, chances are you’ve heard of this herb, or may even have a stash of it hidden somewhere. While we may be well acquainted with it’s effect on our feline companions, but do you know that it has a long history of use on us as well?

     In ancient Rome, Catnip tea was a favored beverage. This herb was often combined with lavender and chamomile to induce a relaxing effect. However, it was often said to help prevent, and in some cases even cure, insanity. It’s effect on mood has been seen in a number of cultures, even in the middle ages it was said to have those same properties. However it was also said to make certain people mean, and was given to executioners to get them “in the mood” to do their job efficiently. Catnip tea continued to be a popular drink throughout Europe and Asia, even being the predominant tea consumed in England up until the Elizabethan Era where it was supplanted by the Camellia sinensis plant, the plant we know of as Tea today.

     Native to Europe and Asia, Catnip was introduced to America with the early Colonists and soon spread throughout the continent. A number of Native American tribes recognized the benefits of this herb and discovered their own uses for it. Today it can be found in most continents.

    Catnip, Nepeta cataria, is part of the Mint, or Lamiaceae, family and has the characteristics that the family is known for. It has a square stem, opposite leaves, flowers that resemble lips, and the whole plant is aromatic. While Catnip is not native to his continent, it grows freely in the right conditions. It’s often found near old homesteads. Once established, it needs less water than many plants in the mint family. The size of Catnip varies greatly, depending on available moisture and the soil. It has been seen up to 5’ tall in ideal conditions, but most often does not get above 16 inches when cultivated. If you are looking to add this plant in your garden, make sure you have the scientific name correct as there are a number of hybrids and other plants that are commonly labeled Catmint.

Medicinal Uses:

Common Names- Catnip, Catswort, Catmint, Field Balm, Ment De Gato

Scientific Name- Nepeta cataria

Edibility- The young leaves are edible raw. They have a mint-like flavor and they make an excellent addition to salads. Older leaves are used as a spice in cooked foods. They can be used fresh or dried to make an aromatic herb tea. The tea should be infused in a closed container in order to preserve the essential oils, boiling is said to spoil it so bring your water to a boil and allow it to cool slightly before pouring it over your herbs.

Summary of Actions- Diaphoretic, Nervine, Relaxant, Antifungal, Bacteriacide, Sedative, Febrifuge, Carminative, Tonic, a Slight Emmenagogue, Antispasmodic, and a Mild Stimulant.

Parts Used- The leaves are the primary parts used although flowers and fresh tips can also be included and some herbalists consider the flowering tips best to use for medicinal purposes. The stems are large enough that they should be avoided.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)- Known as Mao Bo He, Catnip works on the Stomach and Lung Meridians. It releases to the Exterior, Clearing Wind Heat, which makes it useful for colds, flu with headache, chills and fever, sore throat, congestion, wheezing, and restlessness. It revives Stagnant Q, helping to alleviate emotional, mental, or nervous tension, gas, and cramping. It also reduces Inflammation, particularly benefiting to the skin in cases of dermatitis.

Traditional Native American Uses- Several Native American tribes used Catnip to support immune function, and for relaxing muscle spasm and cramps associated with digestion. The Mohegan tribes used a tea made from the leaves to relieve infant colic.

Essential Oil and Aromatherapy- Catnip Essential Oil is most highly regarded for its potential as a mosquito repellent, this is due to nepetalactone, which is the same substance that makes it attractive to cats. The essential oil is also antiseptic, anti-microbial, antispasmodic, and helps to clear up congestion. Catnip Oil may be a skin sensitizer and to use it with caution. Avoid using it in the bath, even if it is diluted and this use may increase chances of having an adverse skin reaction.

Insect Repellent- The active ingredient, which causes unusual behavior in cats, is a volatile oil called nepetalactone, which can be found in the leaves & stem of the plant. The plant itself can be used to keep pesky insects out of certain areas, by placing the plant close to entryways. However the essential oil works best in a preparation to keep those same pests away from your body. It is also interesting to note that this essential oil was found in one study to be about ten times more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET, which is the active ingredient in most insect repellents.

Digestion- Catnip is a great herb to use as a bitter and gentle nervine. When taken before meals, it improves digestive problems, especially those caused by nerves. It can be especially potent when combined with chamomile or lemon balm for this. Add a touch of licorice or honey and you have a tasty tea for all ages. Try adding a little peppermint in with your catnip to make a pleasant tasting tea that is useful for gas, bloating, nausea or as a general after-dinner type beverage.

Children- Catnip has a long history of use in childhood infections, fevers, aches and pains, bad-tempered moods, sleeplessness and digestive upsets. It was even recommended as a front-line treatment against the dreaded fever of smallpox. This gentile herb is save for use in children of any age.

Fever- Catnip has the ability to release tension and heat from the core of the body, out through the skin. This induces perspiration and helps to reduce fevers. Since it’s a gentle herb, this makes it ideal for working with children and other sensitive individuals.

Anxiety and Stress- This herb is a gentle nervine and can be drunk throughout the day. It’s much less likely to cause drowsiness than some of the stronger herbs such as hops or passionflower, and it helps take the edge off a stress-filled lifestyle. Combine it with tulsi to help improve your ability to deal with stressful situations.

Cautions, Contraindications, and Warnings- This herb is generally considered safe for all ages. Keep in  mind that there is always a chance, however rare, for allergic reactions with any plant. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, stop using this herb and speak to a medical or herbal practitioner. Some people caution against using this herb during pregnancy, as it can over stimulate the uterus. But this caution is not universal. If you are pregnant, consult your doctor or midwife before using this herb.




     I only included a basic introduction to this adorable, cat-friendly plant. If you have any questions or comments please leave them below. Follow me on Facebook and Instagram for updates on my adventures in Nature. Find me on YouTube and check out my videos! I also have a few things up on Teespring, check it out! Also, if you like what I do and what to see more, Become a Patron!

Resources:

Catmint: Botanical: https://botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/c/catmin36.html

Catmint: Natural Medicinal Herbs: http://www.naturalmedicinalherbs.net/herbs/n/nepeta-cataria=catmint.php

Catmint: Richard Whelan: https://www.rjwhelan.co.nz/herbs%20A-Z/catmint.html

Catnip: Drugs.com: https://www.drugs.com/npc/catnip.html

Catnip Essential Oil: AromaWeb: https://www.aromaweb.com/essential-oils/catnip-oil.asp

Catnip: Gaia Herbs: https://www.gaiaherbs.com/blogs/herbs/catnip

Catnip: Mountain Rose Herbs: https://www.mountainroseherbs.com/products/catnip/profile

Catnip (Mao Bo He): White Rabbit Institute of Healing: https://www.whiterabbitinstituteofhealing.com/herbs/catnip/

Catnip Tea: Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/health/catnip-tea

Medicinal Uses for Catnip: Herbal Wisdom Institute: http://www.herbalwisdominstitute.com/blog/medicinal-uses-for-catnip

Nepeta Cataria: Plants for a Future: https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Nepeta+cataria

Nepeta Cataria – Catnip: AyurWiki: https://ayurwiki.org/Ayurwiki/Nepeta_cataria_-_Catnip

Nepeta Cataria Effects on Humans: Nepeta Cataria: http://nepetacataria.org/nepeta-cataria-effects-on-humans/

Plant Profile – Catnip: The Forager’s Path: https://www.theforagerspath.com/educational-resources/plant-profiles/catnip-in-the-garden/

DIY Liquid Multivitamin

     I grew up in the era of Flintstones Multivitamins, and while taking your vitamins is a great daily routine. Just how good are those vitamin supplements? Some can be really good and effective, others not so much. One of my major hangups about supplements is that I'm not sure what process the herb/vitamin goes through before it becomes that little pill. So why not make it myself so I know 100% what goes in it, and can tweak it for any special needs that come up?

A Word on Ingredients:

Each of the ingredients I've chosen for these recipes has several different benefits. They're all powerhouses nutritionally, but they also add a bit more than just nutrition. Some of the following herbs are not included in specific recipes, but are really good to think about adding into yours.

      

Alfalfa Medicago sativa is most famously known as livestock feed. However, it's used in this manner because of it's high concentration of nutrients. Alfalfa contains a wide variety of minerals including iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, sulfur, chlorine, sodium, potassium, silicon, and trace elements. It is also a good source of vitamin E, vitamin C, and vitamin K, which is necessary for blood clotting and super important towards the end of pregnancy. It also contains essential amino acids that are not made by the body but must be obtained from food sources. Medicinally, alfalfa is often used to reduce cholesterol and blood pressure. Its high concentration of alkaloids make it useful in reducing blood sugar levels and it is also commonly used as a blood purifier as well as for any types of arthritis or joint problems. One major caution, however, alfalfa is not safe to use in combination with blood thinning agents or medications as it is so effective it can interfere or amplify the effects of these. 

Catnip Nepeta cataria makes most cats go a bit crazy. However it's super beneficial for cats, dogs, and even humans. In ancient times, it was believed to be a remedy for insanity. This is due to it's soothing and calming effect. In animals, catnip has a strong sedative effect, yes, even on your crazy cat (just think about what your cat does after going nuts...sleep!).  It's also used to help calm the nerves, reduce anxiety, reduce menstrual cramps, sooth the stomach, and relieve headaches.  Catnip is also a great antiviral herb that helps to reduce fever. As a member of the mint family, this herb has a whole host of nutritional value. One of it's most concentrated nutrients is Folic Acid, which is helpful for women, children, and unborn children.

Chamomile Matricaria recutita is a great herb for so many reasons. It helps sooth the stomach and nerves. It helps the body move through fevers faster. It's great for children, and as an added bonus, it tastes great! Chamomile is a bitter herb (you'll taste the bitterness if you steep it too long) and all bitter herbs help aid in digestion. So it's a great herb to add to any formula that you use prior to eating. Chamomile has been tested extensively and science has backed quite a few of the traditional uses of this herb, especially it's use as an antipeptic, antispasmodic, antipyretic, antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-allergenic. 

Dandelion Leaf Taraxacum officinale is often despised as a weed, but it's full of amazing properties. It's a traditional salad green and pot herb. Packed full of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, B6, C, and K, one can see why traditional cultures would search out this abundant food. It's also a very beneficial herb for liver health, helping reduce oxidative stress in the liver and suppress fat accumulation.

Licorice Glycyrrhiza glabra (or G. uralensis) is one of those flavors that you either love or hate. But no one can doubt the natural sweetness that it contains. That's why it's such a good herb for children. Adding licorice to an herbal formula, quite often, makes it more palatable for kids, so that you have an easier time getting them to actually take their medicine. It does have some nutritional value, but I mainly added it to these recipes for the flavor and additional benefits. It's an amazing little adaptogen, helping one to better deal with stress and adapt to stressful situations.

Mint Mentha spp. covers a whole host of beneficial herbs. They all have the same uses and similar nutritional profiles. They help to calm the stomach and nerves, fight diseases, and relieve upper-respiratory issues. It's also a great catalyst, helping move other herbs and nutrients throughout your system more efficiently. 

Mullein Verbascum spp. is the name for over 300 species of medicinal plants. This herb is commonly used for upper-respiratory issues and illness. It's also a common treatment for earaches. However it's also packed full of amazing nutrients including proteins, beneficial fats, and flavonoids. It's also safe for children.

Nettle Urtica dioica is an herb I call upon almost daily. It's so useful for so many reasons, not to mention it's a tasty green. In my home, we use nettle to help reduce our allergy symptoms, reduce joint stiffness and pain, to prevent anemia, lower blood pressure, tone kidneys, and break down any kidney or gall stones that may be developing. I put this herb in every one of my nutritive teas and tinctures for all of these reasons, but especially for it's nutritional value. Nettle contains calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorous, iron, sulfur, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin K, and quite a bit of protein.

Oatstraw Avena sativa is a whole body tonic. It's super beneficial to just about every organ and system in the human body. But it's also super packed full of nutrients that we don't always get a lot of from our food. Oatstraw is an excellent source of magnesium and chromium, an important mineral for maintaining a healthy blood sugar level. It’s also a good source of calcium, vitamin A, niacin, iron, phosphorus, riboflavin, selenium, thiamine, and vitamin C. And even better, all the nutrients contained in this little herb are super easy for the body to absorb, digest, and use. 

Red Clover Trifolium pratense is full of benefits for everyone, but especially for women. It helps with hormone issues associated with menstration, early pregnancy, and menopause. However, it's also an important herb for men as it helps prevent prostate problems such as BPH (benign prostate hyperplasia) and even prostate cancer. Red clover is also a source of many valuable nutrients including calcium, chromium, magnesium, niacin, phosphorus, potassium, thiamine, and vitamin C. 

Red Raspberry Leaf Rubus spp. has been used throughout history to help aid in pregnancy and labor. This herb is one of my favorite herbs to use for women, helping balance female hormones, increase fertility, and tone the uterus. It regulates menstrual cycles, reduce cramps, PMS, and other symptoms that come with irregular menses. Raspberry leaves also help relieve respiratory infections, strengthen the intestines, and help speed the healing of minor wounds. Nutritionally, red raspberry leaves contain iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, manganese, niacin, selenium, vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin C, and vitamin E. 

Pygeum Pygeum africanum is an herb from Southern and Central Africa. This plumb tree is actually used more for it's bark than it's fruit, being used for treating benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), boosting fertility, preventing urinary tract infections (UTI), and reducing inflammation. It's also used to help treat and prevent age related issues that some men have, such as male pattern baldness. 

Saw Palmetto Serenoa repens is well known as a male herb, helping to balance testosterone levels and prevent BPH (benign prostate hyperplasia). It's also super nutritious, being packed full of vitamins and minerals. 

Spirulina Arthrospira platensis and Arthrospira maxima is a blue-green algae that is being studied for quite a few of its actions recently. First off, it helps control candida, helping to prevent and treat yeast infections. It's also a great herb to use to help detox heavy metals, being shown to be especially potent against Arsenic. Spirulina is also great for the circulatory system, helping to lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, and reduce the chance of stroke. It provides a bit of an energy boost, making it a great choice to add to your morning routine. It also helps to improve memory and brain function. While all of this is amazing, the number one reason I include this in so many of my recipes is for it's nutritional value. Spriulia contains copper, iron, manganese, magnesium, sodium, potassium, zinc, phosphorous, calcium, selenium, riboflavin, niacin, thiamin, pantothenic acid, vitamin K, vitamin E, folate, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and vitamin A. 

Turmeric Curcuma longa is a great herb for just about everyone. It's anti-inflammatory, antiviral, helps aid digestion, and full of beneficial nutrients. Turmeric contains good amounts of minerals like calcium, iron, potassium, manganese, copper, zinc, and magnesium. It's also super rich in vitamin C.

Basic Multivitamin Tincture

2 parts Nettle Leaf

2 parts Alfalfa Leaf

1 part Oatstraw

½ part Mint

Alcohol Preparation Instructions:

Combine herbs in a 16oz mason jar, fill the jar about ½ way with the herbs. Cover, and fill the jar, with alcohol. Label and leave in a dark, cool place for 6 weeks. Make sure to shake it once a day. After 6 weeks, strain out the solids and enjoy your liquid multivitamin. 

Glycerin Preparation Instructions:

Combine herbs in a 16oz mason jar, fill the jar about ½ way with the herbs. Cover, and fill the jar, with glycerin. Put the lid on the jar. Place a wash cloth, or silicone baking mat on the bottom of a crock pot (crock pot must have a “keep warm” or “Very Low” setting), place the jar on top of the cloth/mat. Fill the crock pot up about ¾ of the way (or about ½ inch under the lid of the jar) with water. Turn the crock pot on it's lowest setting and allow to stay there for at least 1 day (up to 3), adding more water if needed. Strain and enjoy!

Overnight Infusion Option:

Instead of making a tincture, you can use the same herbs in an overnight infusion. Combine the herbs in a 16oz mason jar, fill the jar about ½ way with the herbs. Cover, and fill jar with boiling water. Seal the jar and allow to sit, in room temperature, 8-12 hours or overnight. Enjoy the next day!

This basic recipe can be altered simply by either reducing the amount of one or two of the herbs and adding in whichever other herbs you desire, or using the basic recipe as a starter and adding in the additional herbs on top of it. Here are a few alternative recipes I use as an example. All the instructions are the same so I'm only sharing the ingredients.

Women's Daily/Prenatal Vitamin

2 parts Nettle Leaf

1 part Alfalfa Leaf

1 part Red Raspberry Leaf

1 part Red Clover

½ part Oatstraw

½ part Mint

Men's Daily/Prostate Health 

2 parts Nettle Leaf

1 part Alfalfa Leaf

1 part Saw Palmetto

1 part Pygeum

½ part Oatstraw

½ part Mint

Children's Daily Vitamin

2 parts Nettle Leaf

2 parts Alfalfa Leaf

1 part Mullein

1 part Red Raspberry Leaf

½ part Oatstraw

½ part Licorice (or Chamomile if your child hates Licorice like I did)

Healthy Pets Dog/Cat Multivitamin

2 parts Nettle Leaf

1 part Catnip Leaf

1 part Dandelion Leaf

½ part Turmeric

I hope this vitamin recipe helps improve your daily routine. Feel free to do some research and add in whatever herbs you feel would help you and your family. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below!

Resources:

7 Benefits of Pygeum: Organic Facts: https://www.organicfacts.net/pygeum-benefits.html 

Alfalfa Benefits & Uses: Wellnessmama: https://wellnessmama.com/188/alfalfa-herb-profile/ 

Best Herbs for Prostate Health: Healthfully: https://healthfully.com/34518-herbs-prostate-health.html 

Catnip Herb: Alternative Nature Online Herbal: https://learnaboutherbs.com/gallery/catnip.htm 

Chamomile Benefits: Herb Wisdom: https://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-chamomile.html 

Licorice Root Benefits: Herbs with Rosalee: https://www.herbalremediesadvice.org/licorice-root-benefits.html 

Mint- Medicinal Uses: Mother Earth Living: https://www.motherearthliving.com/health-and-wellness/herbs-for-health-medicinal-mint 

Mullein- The Medicinal Herb that Fights Infections & Inflammation: Dr. Axe: https://draxe.com/mullein/ 

Nutrition of Stinging Nettle: Livestrong: https://www.livestrong.com/article/350785-stinging-nettles-nutrition/

Oatstraw- Stress Reliever, Love Potion, Brain Booster, and More: GrowNetwork: https://thegrownetwork.com/oatstraw-benefits/ 

Red Clover Benefits: Herb Wisdom: https://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-red-clover.html 

Red Raspberry Leaf Tea: Dr. Mercola: https://articles.mercola.com/teas/red-raspberry-leaf-tea.aspx

Saw Palmetto Benefits the Prostate & Stops Hair Loss: Dr. Axe: https://draxe.com/saw-palmetto-benefits/ 

Spirulina Benefits: Dr. Axe: https://draxe.com/spirulina-benefits/ 

Turmeric Nutrition and Benefits: Nutrition and You: https://www.nutrition-and-you.com/turmeric.html 

What Are the Benefits of Organic Dandelion Leaf?: Global Healing Center: https://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/what-are-benefits-of-organic-dandelion-leaf/ 

Nourishing Infusions

     If you look at enough herbal information you may notice a few things. First off, herbs aren't just for one specific ailment, they can work for a wide variety of problems when extracted in the correct medium (vinegar, alcohol, oil, or water) and taken in the correct manner. But what I want to really focus on, right now, is the vitamin and mineral content present in those same herbs.

     Quite a few herbs are also superfoods, and if they're not officially classified as such, they should be. Most herbs are packed full of vitamins and minerals, many of which are hard to come by in the grocery store. But how do you get the full benefit of these nutrients? A typical herbal tea, brewed for flavor more than effect, is only steeped for 5-10 minutes and contains relatively little plant matter. This isn't going to bring a powerhouse of nutrients to the table. Herbal infusions, brewed for a specific effect, are steeped for 30-45 minutes and may contain a few more nutrients, but more often still are lacking in those. Modern science tells us that vitamins and minerals take a longer time to extract than the more effect specific volatile oils and flavors of the typical teas and infusions previously mentioned. So that leaves us looking for an infusion that takes much longer and requires much more plant matter. Enter, nourishing infusions.

     Nourishing infusions take about 6-8 hours to steep, this helps to extract the nutrients that we're looking for. Particularly the minerals, as they are the slowest to extract. An average cup of nettle tea, steeped for 5-10 minutes with only 1 teaspoon of dried nettle leaf, contains around 5-10 mg of calcium where a cup of nettle infusion, steeped for 6 hours containing much more of the leaf, can contain up to 500 mg of calcium. Not to mention all of the other vitamins and minerals contained in nettle leaves. This shows just how much more nourishing of an infusion a nourishing infusion can be.

     Now that we know how long to steep our nourishing infusion, let's chat about how much of it we need, and how much of the herb we need to make it. Most herbalists recommend drinking about 5 quarts of various nourishing infusions a week. I try to go above and beyond, and drink a quart a day, but often end up missing the mark and getting a little over a pint a day (I have a tendency to leave my infusion at home when I have things to do in the mornings...oops), which comes out to about 3 ½ + quarts a week. When I recommend people start out with nourishing infusions, I tend to recommend starting with a pint a day, and working their way up to a quart (which is 2 pints). When you're brewing this infusion a pint at a time, use ½ cup of herb(s) in your container (I use mason jars because the measurements are on the sides) and fill it up with boiling water, close it and let it sit on the counter overnight. If you are feeling like you want to go for the gusto, for each quart I use 1 cup of herb(s). When I'm good and don't forget my infusion, I make a pint at a time. I brew one pint before I go to bed at night, then I brew a second pint when I wake up. This way I have 2 pints of infusion throughout the day, and I can add more variety to my daily routine (I'll often opt to use different herbs with each brewing).

     So what herbs are good to use for nourishing infusions? Realistically, you can use any herb listed as nourishing, as a tonic, or as a nutritive. However, keep in mind that the flavor of some herbs changes drastically over time. Chamomile, for instance, is very sweet when steeped for only 10 minutes. However, when left for 20 minutes or longer, it gets very bitter. The whole point of these infusions is to get more vitamins and minerals into your diet, so you don't want to create a blend that you won't actually drink, because it tastes overly bitter, or just odd. You can also sweeten these infusions, though most sweeteners may take away from some of the benefit, as long as you're getting those nutrients into your system you're doing good. I have some of my favorite blends listed for you below, but I want to introduce you to some great nutritive herbs and give you some tips on making your own blends.

The Herbs:

Nettle Urtica dioica- This herb is well known to be packed full of minerals and great for people suffering from allergies. It is also a diuretic, so you may experience dry eyes or frequent bathroom trips when taking larger amounts of this herb. Try adding some marshmallow leaves (or roots) or licorice to your nettle infusion to help reduce those effects.

Oatstraw and Milky Oats Avena sativa- Yes, this is the same plant that oatmeal comes from. Which means that it's super loaded down with healthy nutrients such as calcium, iron, magnesium, and a wide variety of vitamins and other nutrients. Oatstraw works better over time, and milky oats work better in the short term, to help sooth the nerves and relieve symptoms of fatigue. Oats help to nourish the whole body and is especially good for people who seem to be chronically burnt out.

Red Raspberry Rubus spp.- High in vitamins and minerals such as iron, magnesium, and potassium. Red raspberry is especially good for females, as it works to balance female hormones, and tone the female reproductive system. It's beneficial for women during all stages of their lives and reproductive cycles, but especially helpful preparing for pregnancy and during pregnancy.

Red Clover Trifolium pratense- Another feminine herb, red clover is also packed full of nutrition. It increases fertility in both men and women, but works especially well for women who have problems conceiving. It's also great for improving the memory and preventing cancer growth.

Hawthorne Crataegus spp.- This herb is best known for it's support of the heart, but it's also super packed full of nutrients. The berries are also super tasty. You can use leaves or berries for the nourishing infusions and both help to support the physical heart as well as the emotional one.

Alfalfa Medicago sativa- This herb is best known for it's sprouts, which have been consumed, in health food, for decades now. It's well known to be high in vitamins, especially A, C, E, and K4. It's also packed full of minerals such as calcium, iron, potassium, and phosphorous. However, adding alfalfa to your infusion is an easy way to boost your vitamin and mineral intake.

Comfrey Symphytum officinalis- This herb strengthens and heals bones, skin, ligaments, tendons, and the mucosa (mucus covered surfaces of the body). The infusion is high in protein, minerals, and most vitamins. It's also contains compounds needed for an excellent short term memory.

Spanish Needle Bidens spp.- A local herb, Spanish needle is considered a weed for many a gardener, and a buffet for many a local bee. It's so nutritious that the “founding fathers” of America thought to grow it as a cash crop, instead of spinach. However, they decided to go with spinach instead, because it was so abundant in the wild. The flowers make for a pretty tea, but all aerial parts can be used for a nourishing infusion.

Peppermint Mentha piperita- Mints are all so wonderful, and you can really choose whichever you want for your infusion. Each one has a slightly different flavor and overall effect, but they're all super nutritious and have many of the same qualities that make it great for immune boosting, stomach problems, and allergies.

Lemon Balm Melissa officinalis- This herb is calming and relaxing, helping to relieve anxiety and depression. It also adds a pleasant, lemony, flavor to the infusion. Lemon balm is nourishing and balancing for the nervous system.

Tulsi Ocimum tenuiflorum- Also known as Holy Basil, this herb is an all around favorite of mine. It helps to lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and helps to calm an overexcited nervous system. It's also super tasty and mixes well with just about every other herb out there.

Catnip Nepeta cataria- Not just for cats, Catnip helps to calm down anxiety in humans. It's actions are very mild and can be used with children, it may even help keep nightmares at bay. In the Middle Ages, catnip was believed to help prevent insanity in humans. However it is super nutritious and can be eaten raw or made into a nourishing infusion to add a boost of vitamins to your diet.

Moringa Moringa oleifera- This plant has recently gained a reputation as a superfood. And a well earned reputation at that. It's not only packed full of healthy vitamins and minerals, but also amino acids and protein. Adding moringa to your nourishing infusion can help boost your vitamin and mineral intake dramatically.

Marshmallow Althaea officinalis- This is one of my favorite herbs. The most common parts used are the leaves and roots. I tend to prefer the roots. It's naturally sweet, soothing, and packed full of healthy nutrients. This herb helps to bring moisture to drying blends as well. I tend to add marshmallow to quite a few nettle blends. Steep it either hot or cold, however, if you want to take the most advantage of it's moistening properties, let it steep in a cold infusion.

Violet Viola spp.- Such a pretty little flower, violet is also a great powerhouse of nutrition. The leaves and flowers are both useful in many ways. It's great for the heart, but it's also very soothing for the spirit. The leaves are high in vitamin C, but the flowers hold their own appeal as well. One bonus of using the flowers is that they add a beautiful shade of purple to your infusion. Like marshmallow, you can steep it either hot or cold, but to take the most advantage of it's moistening properties, steep it in a cold infusion.

     Now any of these herbs can be used singly (and herbalist Susan Weed recommends just that), but quite often I blend them to improve flavor, or to tailor them to specific needs (a great woman's nutritive blend involves red clover, red raspberry, and nettle). Adding in some flavorful herbs not listed here can also be good. Quite a few nutritive blends I've stumbled upon elsewhere include cinnamon, cardamom, or ginger. Just make sure you are familiar with the herbs you are using, and if you have any questions, feel free to contact your friendly neighborhood herbalist for more information and safety concerns. Herbs are great powerhouses of nutrients, but they're also potent medicines and should be used with respect.

The Blends:

Lovely Lady

This tea is wonderful for ladies going through every stage of life. It helps balance female hormones, increases fertility, improves the chances of implantation, and helps prepare both mother and unborn infant for labor. It's super high in folate (which is necessary for both female and infant health) and iron. This tea is my go-to for just about every woman I talk to, as well as myself, and the only feedback I've had is positive. One lady even believes this tea to be the main reason her first labor was relatively fast and easy. Sometimes I vary it a little by doubling the nettle leaf and alternating the red clover and red raspberry. Drinking red clover every day for one week and red raspberry for the next. And for the last trimester of a pregnancy I usually recommend leaving out the red clover and doubling the red raspberry. I'll also increase the peppermint when morning sickness is especially rough, or when plagued by nausea for some other reason.

Lovely Lady Tea

1 part Nettle Leaf

1 part Red Clover

1 part Red Raspberry Leaf

½ part Lemon Balm (or Peppermint)

Vitali-Tea

This blend is a good, all around, multivitamin blend. It's great for everyone in the whole family and packed full of nutrients.

Daily Vitali-Tea

1 part Nettle Leaf

1 part Moringa Leaf

1 part Alfalfa

½ part Oatstraw

½ part Peppermint

Stress Free

This blend is not just full of nutrients, but all the herbs are considered to be adaptogens as well. They help us to adapt to daily stress, and help to bring us into balance. This helps to reduce our anxiety levels (something every American needs) and improve our outlook. This blend also includes hawthorne, which helps to strengthen the heart, and catnip, which Medieval cultures believed could prevent insanity.

Stress Free Nutrient Tea

1 part Hawthorne Berry and/or Leaf

1 part Nettle Leaf

½ part Tulsi

½ part Lemon Balm

½ part Catnip

Cold Brew

This blend is made up of herbs that work best when brewed without heat. Marshmallow, violet, and milky oats all contain compounds that break down fast when exposed to warmer temperatures. Because they work best cold, they may take longer to brew, so I give them 8-10 hours instead of 6-8. This blend works especially well for people who have problems with heartburn and GERD.

Cold Brew Nutrients

(should steep 8-10 hours)

1 part Marshmallow Root

1 part Violet Flower

1 part Violet Leaf

1 part Milky Oats

In any of these recipes, feel free to change the ingredients around. Play with different herbs, but play smart. Herbs are wonderful allies in our search for better health, but they can also be potent. Use them with respect but have fun, play around, and let me know what you think below!

Resources:

Difference in Tea vs. Infusion: Bulk Herb Store: https://www.bulkherbstore.com/blog/tea-vs-infusion-whats-the-difference/

How to Incorporate Nourishing Herbal Infusions into Your Diet: Bulk Herb Store: https://www.bulkherbstore.com/blog/how-to-incorporate-nourishing-herbal-infusions-into-your-diet/

How to Make Nourishing Herbal Infusions: Mountain Rose Herbs: https://blog.mountainroseherbs.com/how-to-make-nourishing-herbal-infusions

How to Make Nourishing Herbal Infusions: Susan Weed: http://www.susunweed.com/How_to_make_Infusions.htm

Nourishing Herbal Infusions the Wise Woman Way: Nourishing Herbal Infusions: http://nourishingherbalinfusions.com/

Nourishing Infusions: Fresh Cup: https://www.freshcup.com/nourishing-infusions/