DIY: Catnip Calming Tincture

Updated on July 26, 2026 When most people hear the word catnip, they picture a happy cat rolling around on the floor. But this humble herb has a long history of traditional use for people, too.

For generations, herbalists have turned to catnip as a gentle herb to encourage relaxation, support occasional digestive discomfort, and help the body unwind after a busy day. It's especially loved by families because of its mild nature and versatility.

This simple glycerite (an alcohol-free tincture made with vegetable glycerin) is beginner-friendly, kid-friendly, and easy to keep on hand whenever your family could use a little extra calm.

Prefer not to make your own? Earthley's Calm & Clarity and Sleepy Time combine catnip with other complementary herbs for even more herbal support.

DIY Catnip Calming Tincture

Ingredients:

1 cup dried catnip leaves and flowers (or about 2 cups fresh catnip)

Vegetable glycerin

Filtered water

Supplies:

Glass jar with a tight-fitting lid

Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth

Amber dropper bottle for storage

Directions:

Step 1: Fill the Jar Fill a clean glass jar about halfway with dried catnip. If you're using fresh catnip, fill the jar nearly full.

Step 2: Make the Glycerin Mixture Combine 3 parts vegetable glycerin with 1 part filtered water and stir well.

Step 3: Cover the Herbs Pour the glycerin mixture over the catnip until the herbs are completely covered, leaving about ½ inch of headspace at the top of the jar. Step 4: Infuse Seal the jar tightly and give it a good shake. Store it in a cool, dark place for 4–6 weeks, shaking every few days. Step 5: Strain Strain the finished glycerite through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer, squeezing the herbs to remove as much liquid as possible. Step 6: Bottle Transfer the finished tincture to a labeled amber dropper bottle and store it in a cool, dark place.

Suggested Use:

Many families enjoy glycerites because they're naturally sweet and alcohol-free.

Adults: 1–2 dropperfuls as desired.

Children: Many herbalists use a few drops up to about ½ dropperful, depending on age and individual preference.

Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using herbs if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition.

Why Catnip?

Despite its name, catnip isn't just for cats.

Traditionally, herbalists have used catnip to:

Support a calm, relaxed mood.*

Encourage restful sleep.*

Soothe occasional nervous tummies and digestive discomfort.*

Promote relaxation after a busy or stressful day.*

Its gentle nature and mild flavor make it a favorite herb for many families looking to support everyday wellness.

Tips for Success:

Dried catnip creates a more shelf-stable glycerite, though fresh catnip can also be used.

Label your jar with the ingredients and the date you started it.

Shake the jar regularly throughout the infusion period.

Store the finished glycerite away from heat and direct sunlight.

Looking for Something More?

If you'd rather skip the DIY, Earthley's herbal blends make it easy to enjoy thoughtfully combined herbs without making your own tinctures. Calm & Clarity – A gentle herbal blend formulated to support a calm, balanced mood and everyday focus.* Sleepy Time – A soothing herbal blend designed to encourage relaxation and restful sleep.* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.