# DIY: Catnip Calming Tincture

Learn how to make a DIY catnip calming tincture with vegetable glycerin. This gentle, alcohol-free herbal glycerite supports relaxation and restful sleep.

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**](https://www.earthley.com/products/calm-clarity-herbal-extract) and [**Sleepy Time **](https://www.earthley.com/products/sleepy-time-herbal-extract)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**](https://www.earthley.com/products/calm-clarity-herbal-extract) – A gentle herbal blend formulated to support a calm, balanced mood and everyday focus.*  

[**Sleepy Time**](https://www.earthley.com/products/sleepy-time-herbal-extract) – 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.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Is this made with alcohol?

No. This recipe uses vegetable glycerin instead of alcohol, making it an alcohol-free herbal glycerite.

### Can I use fresh catnip from my garden?

Yes! Fresh catnip works well. Simply fill the jar nearly full instead of halfway, since fresh herbs contain much more water than dried herbs.

### How long does a glycerite last?

When stored in a cool, dark place, glycerites are generally best used within about 1–2 years.

### Can I use this every day?

Many people choose to incorporate gentle herbs like catnip into their regular wellness routines. If you have questions about what's appropriate for your family, consult your healthcare provider.

### Can I combine catnip with other herbs?

Absolutely. Catnip pairs well with other traditionally calming herbs like chamomile, lemon balm, and lavender in many herbal preparations.