Catnip (Nepeta cataria) vs Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)

Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)

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.

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is an upright, clump-forming perennial reaching about 4 ft (1.2 m), with divided, pinnate leaves and pinkish-white clusters of small flowers. Known for its pungent (often unpleasant) smell, valerian has been used medicinally since early Greece and Rome, historically for insomnia, migraine, fatigue and stomach cramps. NCCIH says the evidence on sleep is inconsistent and there is not enough evidence to know whether valerian helps any health condition.

Safety & precautions

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

Liver: Very rare liver injury has been reported, most often when valerian was combined with other herbs (NCCIH), and LiverTox rates it a probable rare cause. Stopping after long use: NCCIH notes withdrawal-type symptoms, such as anxiety, irritability and insomnia, when valerian is stopped suddenly after long-term use. Driving: MSK advises not driving or operating machinery after taking it. Individual Reactions: Some experience stimulation instead of sedation. Duration: NCCIH says 300 to 600 mg a day has been used with apparent safety for up to 6 weeks, and the safety of long-term use is unknown. Pregnancy: Little is known about safety during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Possible Side Effects: Headache, stomach upset, mental dullness and vivid dreams have been reported.

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