Catnip (Nepeta cataria) vs German Chamomile (Chamomilla recutita)

Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

German Chamomile (Chamomilla recutita)

About

Catnip is a downy, aromatic perennial growing to 3 feet with heart-shaped, gray-green leaves and whorls of white flowers marked with purple spots. Native to Europe and naturalized in North America, it grows in dry wayside places and mountainous regions up to altitudes of 5,000 feet. The plant is gathered when in flower during summer and autumn. Catnip has an excitatory effect on cats.

German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is a sweetly aromatic annual, growing to about 2 ft (60 cm), featuring finely cut leaves and small, daisy-like flower heads with white petals and a yellow center. It has a slightly bitter, apple-like taste. It is promoted today for indigestion, anxiety, insomnia and other conditions and used on the skin for some skin conditions; NCCIH says studies have not produced enough reliable evidence to rate its usefulness for specific conditions.

Safety & precautions

Large doses can cause vomiting. Ask a qualified professional before giving it to children or babies. Avoid during pregnancy.

Allergies: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions (e.g., dermatitis) more often than with many other herbs. Essential Oil: Avoid internal use unless professionally supervised; do not use topically during pregnancy. Blood-Thinning Medications: Seek professional guidance if also taking anticoagulants. Children: Ask a professional before giving it to children.

Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.